2005-09-01
Abstract
What's coming? Windows XP 64-bit (comment); The trouble with rootkits (feature); Symbian OS - mysterious playground for new malware (feature); New malware distribution methods threaten signature-based AV (feature); Black Hat and Defcon - too hot for many (conference report); The Common Malware Enumeration (CME) initiative (spotlight); McAfee Virusscan Online (product review)...
Comment
What's coming? Windows XP 64-bit
This article was prompted by the arrival of Windows XP 64-bit, early in June 2005. after deciding to install the new operating system, as normal, assumed that he would be able to use it in the way in which he was accustomed. How wrong could one be?
Features
The trouble with rootkits
Rootkits are a fast-emerging security threat which can hide malware from conventional security tools. So how do they do this, and what can you do about them?
Symbian OS - mysterious playground for new malware
In the last year or two, an increasing number of Symbian threats have been reported. While there are not yet many malware writers who are interested in the Symbian OS, this may soon change. asks: is the Symbian OS in danger of further attacks?
New malware distribution methods threaten signature-based AV
In this article, we identify two new malware distribution methods: short-span attacks and serial variant attacks. We describe their particular distribution patterns, the development of recent attacks, and the potential dangers they present.
Conference report
Black Hat and Defcon - too hot for many
Although one always hears about 'Black Hat and DEFCON', they are in fact two very different events. VB's intrepid reporter (aka AV industry miscreant) has a report on each.
Spotlight
The Common Malware Enumeration (CME) initiative
The Common Malware Enumeration (CME) initiative is a new effort headed by the US-CERT, which aims to match a unique identifier to each threat. Jimmy Kuo and Desiree Beck explain how it is hoped this initiative will help alleviate the 'virus-naming mess'.
Product review
McAfee Virusscan Online
Detailed testing and analysis of McAfee VirusScan Online.
Poll
Should anti-virus software be free for personal use?Leave a comment
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Malware Prevalence
| Agent |
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|---|---|
| Zbot |
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| Suspect packers |
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| Dropper-misc |
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| Delf |
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