Despite some prior downward trends the first quarter of 2012 saw dramatic increases in PC and mobile malware, according to McAfee’s quarterly threat report, released last week.
The mobile malware jump was significant, and in keeping with the trend of the Android platform representing the “wild wild west” of mobility, Android was the most popular target of mobile malware threats.
Moving on to PC malware, McAfee reports that the first quarter of 2012 saw the largest number of malware detected per quarter in the last four years. Rootkits and Trojans are on the rise, as well as software with faked security signatures. Cyber criminals are banking on computer users being more likely to trust the digital signature of a trusted provider. The Stuxnet malware attack also used a forged digital signature, signally that future attacks may trade on that successful attempt.
With malware attacks on the rise for all platforms ? mobile, PC and Mac ? it’s important to note that the single biggest risk factor for malware is an uninformed user. Prevent malware by following these tips:
- It goes without saying but NEVER install software from an untrusted source. When in doubt, don’t install.
- Beware spam. Email, social networks, groups ? they all pose malware risks. Don’t click on any link you don’t trust.
- Avoid pop-ups. There’s rarely a good reason to click on a pop-up.
- Don’t assume your antivirus software will protect you. New malicious sites and accounts are set up daily ? too quickly for antivirus programs to pick up the new vulnerabilities, or for Microsoft (or other companies) to update their software. You should still use an antivirus program, but don’t assume that because you do you’re covered.
