News

27 Million new forms of malware identified in 2012

It is a well known fact within the cybersecurity industry that new strains of malware are emerging each day. The exact numbers, however, may surprise even the most pessimistic forecasters. According to SPAMfighter's analysis of a recent report on the current state of cyberthreats, 27 million forms of malware were introduced over the course of 2012, averaging approximately 74,000 per day.

The number of malware strains created in 2012 account for more than 20 percent of the 125 million known variants. Trojans continue to be the most frequently encountered forms of malware, responsible for 76 percent of reported infections. This number is up significantly from just two years ago, when they represented 56 percent of all malware. Experts cited the proliferation of exploit kits in order to attack a system from multiple angles for the continuing popularity of trojan horses among cybercriminals.

The Pacific-Asian regions were hit hardest by malware during 2012. According to the study, China led the world in reported infections, with nearly 55 percent of the nation's computers having been compromised. South Korea trailed slightly behind while Taiwan reported malware infections on 42 percent of its machines. European nations reported the lowest percentage of infections.

The report predicts that vulnerabilities in widely used software will become the main target of security breaches over the next year. The extensive circulation of these products make them a desirable target for cybercriminals, who can target more users with the same malware.

While researchers noted that organizations have become better equipped to defend against attacks, the sheer number of malware has placed them at a disadvantage. It is vital to a system's security that comprehensive defensive measures are implemented, including malware detection and data encryption.

Keep your sensitive data protected from cyberthieves by getting your SSL certificate today.

corporate office

Thawte
The Gateway
Century Lane
Century City, 7441
Cape Town
South Africa

Postal Address:
P O Box 15986
Panorama 7500
Cape Town
South Africa

Call: +27 21 819 2200
Fax: +27 21 819 2950