AOL's 2004 Top 10 Spam Subject Lines

December 29, 2004

While I'm on the topic of 'The Top 10 This or That for 2004,' (see Most-Used IM Acronyms from earlier today) this release also came through today:

America Online Announces 2nd Annual 'Top 10 Spam Terms'

AOL's top 10 spam subject lines for 2004 were:

1. "We carry the most popular medications" (Vioxx appeared often)
2. "You've been sent an Insta-Kiss!" (phishing/ID theft scam)
3. "You Have 17 New Pictures" (phishing/ID theft scam)
4. "STEAMY HOT LESBIAN ACTION LIVE ON CAMERA!"
5. "All orders are shipped from authorized locations" (re: online medications)
6. "2005 Digital Cable Filters"
7. "F R E E* 30 Second Pre-Qualification MORTGAGE Application"
8. "HURRY HURRY Hot Stock on the RISE"
9. "Sale PRICES ARE BEST ONLINE!"
10. "Breaking news on the Top Pick stock"

Some of those do look familiar!

AOL says that the character of spammers has changed over time. The company describes the newer spammers as "sophisticated, nefarious, shadowy, devious, deceitful, sneaky, malicious, and -- unfortunately -- dedicated .... Gone are most 'small-time' spammers, and what is left are the 'hardcore, kingpin spammers.'"

AB -- 12/29/04