25 Mar 2009

Virus awareness 'is paramount'

Many companies are not aware of the full extent of virus threats, according to an industry expert.

David Emms, senior technology consultant at international information security software vendor the Kaspersky Lab, claims the concept of viruses will take time to get through to staff.

"Most people are now vaguely aware of viruses as a concept and with Trojans, worms and various kinds [of malware], even that has stepped on a bit," he comments.

Mr Emms adds that people need to realise that malicious code does not get written for fun or mischief, but to ultimately gather information.

A hacker's overall aim is to obtain money, a fact which must begin to permeate through business mangers' minds, he concludes.

IT protection and control firm Sophos recently published its annual Security Threat Report, which reveals the company identifies an average of five new malicious websites every day, illustrating the need for effective security.