This week, BBC World News reports that a relatively new Internet threat is growing in numbers. “Zombies” are hacked computers that are run collectively through a network without the knowledge of the user. The network of Zombie computers are used to attack other web sites and to store the stolen information. The article reports that there has been a large influx of new Zombies over the summer rising from an estimated 100,000 computers to more than 450,000. Most of the Zombie computers are running different versions of Microsoft Windows. This influx of Zombies coincides with a decrease in so-called Command and Control (C & C) servers. An independent tracking security group is responsible for providing BBC News with the information.
In the scope of the number computers in the world connected to the internet, 450,000 is a very small portion, but the fact that there is a rapid increase in hacker activity is alarming. The Shadowserver Foundation, the aforementioned independent security group, suggests the network of hackers is focusing its efforts for a large scale attack. Unfortunately, no information is given and/or available about the intended website or sites targeted for the attack. Although the article did not specify the countries involved with the Zombies, it does imply that the attacks will be on a global level. Protecting one’s personal information and private computer should be a very high concern in today’s world. Making sure the most recent security updates for one’s operating system, internet browser, anti-virus and anti-spyware/malware programs is a very quick, easy and efficient way to protect one’s personal computer and private information.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/7596676.stm
1 comment:
I must admit I'm slightly amused by BBCs recent acknowledgment of an issue that has been around for nearly a decade now. Ever since there was a DOS prompt, people have been hacking computers and using them as relay points. I guess the only real news is people are still idiotic enough to not protect their computers and still find it wise to use a credit card on them. I mean in all seriousness the issue is not that difficult; Actually spend some cash to get a legit anti-virus ware, stock up on protection programs ((Peer Guardian, SS&D)), use secure browsers, run scans regularly ((i mean seriously you can program the computer to do it its self)), and most importantly, stop visiting sites that aren't secure(( IE PORN- number one cause of credit card theft)). Correct me if I'm wrong, but its pretty easy to spot a safe site from an unsafe one. For one if it looks like its connected to a shanty in Thailand, incorrect English spelling and the url phrase .BIZ is attached, you probably don't want to be there. Regardless this shouldn't be an issue with an average computer user. Corporations on the other hand are a different story, and require the extra security, but I don't find that I'm qualified to comment on that field. ((Although a proper network admin should have something like this underbelt already))
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