"Trusted malware" on the rise
By Joe Elvin
23/06/2011
"Trusted malware" is growing at an alarming rate, according to AVG.
A new report by the computer security provider reveals a 300 per cent increase in the amount of hackers obtaining stolen digital certificates to add to their malicious software.
These certificates are fooling more and more computer users into believing that the file they are downloading is from a trusted source, when it is in fact a virus.
According to eweekeurope.co.uk, the report claimed that the rise in popularity of Apple Macs meant they were being increasingly targeted by these crafty cyber-crooks.
The increasing amount of malware disguised as trusted downloads may encourage businesses to invest in systems management software in order to protect their files from being damaged or compromised.
According to startupsmart.com.au, a source from AVG said: "Although in the last few years we have seen many faked digital certificates in use by cyber criminals, the use of stolen legitimate keys is a major trend these days.
"By spamming users to download apps or simply posting them on download stores or markets, the software distribution is easy and scalable."
The report suggests that the amount of malicious programs directly taking money from victims' bank accounts has dramatically risen as well, especially via mobile devices.
