Zafi and Netsky variants are continuing to spread and anti-virus vendors say the worms still show no signs of disappearing.
Brett Myroff, CEO of local Sophos distributor Netxactics, says one of the main factors in their longevity is the lack of safe computing habits. "Protection against Zafi-B has been available for a couple of months now, and computer users need to get into the habit of updating their systems in a much more timely manner, or this nuisance will continue to dominate reports.
"In fact, the entire top 10 list of viruses in August comprises viruses which have been doing the rounds for weeks if not months," says Myroff.
According to Kaspersky Labs` "dirty dozen" report, which lists the major virus attacks on a monthly basis, Zafi and Netsky variants have remained the most prevalent for the past two months. Sophos` global monitoring stations say the same variant - Zafi.b - has proved the most prevalent for the last three months.
"A few pesky Netsky variants are still flying around, despite the arrest of the worm`s alleged author a few months ago," adds Myroff.
Perhaps the most notable virus to emerge in August was the voyeur virus. Although not widespread, the virus enabled the sender to gain remote access of infected PCs, allowing them to switch on Webcams and microphones, effectively spying on users.
No new widespread viruses occurred last month, while 9.3% of all e-mail circulating throughout the month was believed to be viral. "Despite more than 1 200 new viruses being detected in August, not one has made it onto the chart this month," says Myroff.
Central Command products and services VP Steven Sundermeier agrees that August was another quiet month, but warned against user complacency. "Unlike last August...it has been a quiet month in terms of new global virus outbreaks.
"We`re keeping our fingers crossed that this pattern continues. However, the virus problem is more than likely going to continue to get worse before it gets better. Educating the user about safe computing practices is the key to winning the battle."
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