In an initiative to encourage Internet users to safeguard themselves against malicious computer threats, the Australian Government launched National E-security Awareness Week this week.
"It is very encouraging to see initiatives such as the National E-security Awareness Week, which help in promoting awareness of online threats and the steps Internet users can take to protect themselves and their businesses," says Brett Myroff, CEO of Sophos South Africa.
"It is through programmes like this that heightened user awareness may be achieved, and with this awareness, end-users are far less likely to fall victim to online attacks, either through carelessness, or out-of-date virus protection."
Emerging threats
This week's line-up of low to medium prevalence threats include the Troj/Banloa-FJ and Troj/BHODLL-J Trojans. Both affect Windows users, says Myroff.
Also noted was the Troj/Ranck-FU, a Trojan for the Windows platform that installs itself in the registry, he says.
Troj/Bdoor-ALL, another Trojan for Windows noted this week, is a backdoor and key-logging Trojan, explains Myroff.
Furthermore, Troj/DwnLdr-HEI has been noted and installs itself in the registry, he says.
"Our dependence on the Web for purchasing goods and services and for gathering information is growing all the time. This makes the Web an ideal hunting ground for cyber-criminals to catch poorly protected users," Myroff adds.
According to Myroff, the rising prevalence of social interaction via sites such as Facebook and MySpace further contributes to the need for greater awareness of potential dangers.
"Putting in place an up-to-date security policy that proactively defends your Web and e-mail gateway - and protects all your endpoint computers and mobile devices - is vital. Equally important is educating users on appropriate and acceptable online behaviour. These measures will deter malware perpetrators by making an organisation an unattractive target," he concludes.
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