Recently I had to remove some viruses from a large number of workstations and servers. After the cleanup was finally completed I was wondering how many new viruses are created each month. I seemed to remember a report that was out about 2005 and it stated that there were almost 300 new viruses created each month.
I could not find that original report; however, I did find something on WikiAnswers.com that got my attention:
“according to a Symantec (anti-virus manufacturer) report found on the CERT (USA Government office; Department of Homeland Security) website , “nearly 7,000 new worms and viruses . . . in the first half of 2006; this is the highest number ever recorded for a 6-month period.” Given that figure, one may derive that over 1,166 worms and viruses are created per month.”
I am sure some would argue that there are far fewer viruses out there. They would argue that these are just clones and variations on a far fewer number of original viruses written by a few exceptional people. This may be true but the fact remains that these clones and variations are dangerous.
Cyber criminals are really smart. These viruses are for generating money. The viruses are engineered to look for patterns like social security numbers or credit card numbers. Even bank account numbers. Since all numbering is based on patterns it is not hard for a programmer to write a virus that will start recording when someone does something that the hacker deems interesting. These viruses can even upload your information to servers on the internet. Once a hacker has your information he can use it to steel your identity and cash or sell the information to others who use it for their own purposes.
While all this is very scary information you are probably wondering what you need to do to protect yourself or what the odds are that you will actually be affected.
We will cover some very simple steps that you can take to protect yourself. As far as the odds go I have no realistic information. I can only tell you that for the unprotected computer the odds are very good that you will be affected in some way.
I am going to refer to a well written 2001 article in SANS.org by Jon Willert.
Yes the article is 9 years old and some of the information about virus programs is dated. However, the information that tells you how to protect yourself is timeless.
I am going to distill the information to make it more user friendly to the SOHO user. But the content Jon wrote is going to be applicable for years to come.
The distilled version is basically this:
Do not depend on any one program to protect your computer. If the one program you depend on is compromised all your defenses are gone.
Good security is basically about having layers of security.
Layer 1.. Get yourself a good Anti-virus program. Install it and keep it updated and do full scans of your computer. AVG Anti-virus is a good free program and is in the top 10 AV programs in Jon’s article. Here is a link to one of my posts that tells you where to get the free version. http://wp.me/sRk6M-freeav
Layer 2.. Utilize a software-based personal firewall. Windows comes with a built in firewall. Make sure it is turned on. Also many of the security and antivirus programs on the market come with a built in firewall. Make sure you install it if you are not using the windows firewall.
Layer 3… Utilize a router/firewall device for your Internet connection. Most internet connections these days are broadband and the providers supply you with something. Make sure the provider sets it up and ask if it is secure. If you purchase one yourself get a LinkSys. This product was purchased by Cisco. If you recognige the name Cisco then you know they are industry leaders.
Layer 4… Update your operating system with security updates. This one is easy just make sure Windows Updates is turned on. Windows usually nags you these days to this feature on. Just do it.
Layer 5… Update your applications with security patches. This basically means to keep your software updated. For most of this is Microsoft Office and is covered under the windows updates. However, if you use other software and the vendor telly you a patch is available you should probably install it.
Well, these are the layers that are applicable to the soho user. If you have questions please feel free to leave a comment.
