Convergence of virus writers and hackers: fact or fantasy?
Sarah Gordon Symantec Security Response
Qingxiong Ma Southern Illinois University
Convergence of virus writers and hackers: fact or fantasy?
The theory of planned behaviour (TPB) is one of the most influential and
popular conceptual frameworks used to predict human behaviour. In this paper, the
authors utilize TPB to define a methodology for examining the ethical belief systems
of hackers and for deriving predictors of their behaviours. While related research
has been carried out on the psychology of virus writers, research on hackers has not
been as well covered Thus, these findings, when compared and contrasted with research
on virus writers, offer the reader the first scientifically modelled insight on the
psychological convergence (or lack thereof) of the communities. The analysis of these
results will allow comparison between the two subject groups, focusing on cognitive
factors such as personal obligation, social pressure, and self-control. Findings will
consider the expected effectiveness of varied deterrent and educational techniques,
as well as offer insight for public policy, legislation and educational efforts.
del.icio.us 
digg this
This month's VB100 test saw some major changes and a radical overhaul of the VB100 test methodology - for the first time allowing products to use their 'cloud' look-up systems. John Hawes has all the details.