M86 Anticipates Botnet Disruptions to Persist in 2012

Next year, botnets takedowns are expected to turn up again, but they will exist for a short period of time, according to M86's latest report-- Security Threat Predictions Report for 2012.

Across the globe, Botnets are compromised machines and hackers' arms. In the last one year, only a small number of botnet 'takedowns' (mainly Cutwail and Lethic botnets) were experienced. The Cutwail and Lethic botnets, even after being deactivated several times, are still spamming because of pay-per-install programs which put in spiteful software for a payment on previously-compromised systems.

Besides, M86 also anticipated about the forthcoming London Olympics. Its APAC Engineering Director Jason Pearce said that such big sporting events (like Olympics) catch the attention of a lot of people, be it individuals who want information about the event or cybercriminals who want to rob credit card particulars, arnnet.com.au reported on November 21, 2011.

M86's Vice President of Technical Strategy Bradley Anstis advised that sports fans should be cautious about burlesque posts which appear to be coming from genuine sources. He said that these cybercriminals may seek ticketing, travel and retail scams, Metro reported on November 22, 2011.

Anstis divulged that the Olympic organizers can make people aware of the peril. It is indeed a genuine prospect for London to set an example for similar future events.

M86 also anticipated about various other risks, including an increase in the application of exploit kits, rising levels of malevolent junks, and aiming of third-party software for malicious virus.

Anstis informed that mainly Java is a troublesome part for companies as when the Java Virtual Machines are updated, every time, the existing software gets smashed. But, in case of Adobe Flash, the updating does not lead to smashing of the existing environment. Thus, Java has larger window of susceptibility.

Security experts advise that in order to reduce the effects of cyber attacks, the internet users should keep themselves well-informed and updated about various malware. They should understand the risks associated with spam mails, and malicious links. The downloading of spiteful attachments can prove hazardous. To avoid such dangerous situations, the users must install high quality anti-spam and anti-virus software on their systems, and keep them updated, the experts direct.

Related article: MU Students Received phishing E-mail

» SPAMfighter News - 11/30/2011