Hackers reach beyond Windows, IE

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Impossible!

So as people move away from IE (now below 90 percent usage), attackers are turning their attention to Mozilla and other Internet browsers, according to Symantec.

The Symantec report also predicts that crackers will become more interested in Macs during 2005, specifically mentioning sales of low-priced mini Macs. As more casual, less tech-savvy users adopt Macs, expect to hear more about vulnerabilities exposed within the Mac OS, which is based on the Unix system. Other security companies are seeing an uptick in Mac flaws. For example, security company Secunia also saw an increase in reported Mac OS flaws during 2004.

But, but, but, I thought it was a myth that the more popular a product is, the more it will be attacked and the more flaws will be uncovered?

Popularity isn't the whole story, but it certainly is a very large part of the story. It isn't even absolute popularity but popularity within a certain vulnerable segment: less tech-savvy computer users. I totally agree with this statement: As more casual, less tech-savvy users adopt Macs, expect to hear more about vulnerabilities exposed within the Mac OS. Only time will tell if we are correct but the very fact that almost all successful Windows attacks now rely on social engineering tells me that all the technical security in the world won't save you if your users open the front door every time someone knocks.

Posted by: NonZealot   Posted on: 03/21/05 You are currently: a Guest | Members login | Terms of Use

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