Internet Security

Internet security is bombarded with weaknesses in the form of malware, spyware, viruses, and worms. Malicious code, or malware, is a general term encompassing a broad range for programmed code security threats. Malware is different than viruses, Trojans, spyware, and worms in that it is typically reported on a wide variety of operating systems, applications, and propagated through the Internet very quickly making it the number one security problem. The primary way malware is delivered to networks is through drive-by-downloads via web browsing. Sophisticated malware uses the technique of polymorphism along with cryptographic mechanisms to bypass heuristic and signature based definitions scanning devices on a network. Once malware is on a network, its goal is to disrupt services, cause damage, or seek financial gain like stealing credit card numbers, social security numbers, account numbers, or other sensitive personally identifiable information (PII). Malware can also instantaneously steal login credentials, intellectual property, trade secrets, and other proprietary business data. According to Symantec, destructive malware is up 25% from previous years.