A few days ago, I found out (rather late) that Aweber had admitted to a security breach on their systems. Depending where you stand, the damage can be minor or major. While it is reported that their own customer’s data including credit cards, addresses etc were stolen, their customers’ mailing lists’ email addresses were. This means is, email list subscribers of anyone using Aweber were the victims. As a result, some email list subscribers have noticed a big influx of spam.
It is no secret that I do recommend and have been using Aweber for many years. It is the first time in my experience with them it has happened. Yes, it has been irritating because I feel a responsibility to my subscribers. I believe I too have been a victim because an address that is only used for one thing and never had spam for the longest time, is now flooded with spam since December. If you’re one of those affected, I’m sorry and truly understand the frustration. The sad fact is, there was nothing I could’ve done before it happened, nothing I could’ve done when it happened and nothing after. Despite all that, I am still glad I didn’t personally have to manage that nightmare. Here’s why:
This incident clearly displays how the spam business has changed or grown up if you can call it that. While there will always some who use viruses on your computer and similar tactics, they now realize that it takes a lot more attacks to get a few addresses. Why not hit the guys with a boat-load of addresses already on their systems? Mailing list providers will of course be among the top targets. But it won’t be long if they haven’t already, before they sniff out and try their luck on any web site or company who runs their own mailing list system. Like a WordPress mailing plugin or a mailing list script. Not saying this to scare you, but to inform you of the realities. Wouldn’t be doing my job otherwise. If you do choose to run your own mailing list systems be ultra careful over securing it and who has access to your system. Be vigilant because you can’t point your finger at a third party.
Images courtesy of ivan petrov
