11/11/2009

A security loophole has been discovered on the search engine Bing that allows users to steal money from its cashback service.

The search engine, which has been developed by Microsoft to challenge Google, introduced the cashback feature as a way to lure customers away from its competitor.

It allows users who use Bing to shop through its partners to get a percentage of their money back.

The glitch was found by US user Samir Meghani, who claims that even though he has never used Bing's shopping service, his account contained a balance of $2,080.06 (£1,251.35).

He said: 'Bing doesn't seem to be able to detect these fake transactions, at least not right away.'

In a letter sent to Mr Meghani by Microsoft which he published on his blog, the company accuses him of 'providing information directing users how to misuse the Microsoft Bing Cashback program'.

It added: 'Microsoft views the misuse of its programs and resultant injury extremely seriously. If necessary, Microsoft us prepared to consider further action to protect its rights.'

Bing went live in June 2009 after Microsoft decided to rebrand and launch its search engine as a rival to Google.