IBM report confirms rise in web-based security attacks

The latest IBM X-Force Trend and Risk annual report has confirmed an increase in web-based attacks, with cybercriminals using legitimate corporate websites to push malware and steal confidential data.

"Cyber-criminals target businesses because they provide an easy target to launch attacks against anyone that visits the web," said Kris Lamb, global director and senior operations manager, IBM X-Force. "This is one of the oldest forms of mass attack still in existence today and there are a number of simple steps that can be taken in ensuring better security for regional businesses, it is therefore surprising that cyber-criminals are still finding fruits from their efforts."

Last year more than half of all the vulnerabilities identified were related to web applications, of which more than 75% had no patch. By the end of 2008, the volume of attacks jumped to 30 times the number initially seen that summer.

Another trend noted was the continued focus by cybercriminals on browser and ActiveX controls, with planned attacks linking to malicious videos and documents.

2009 is set to see more of the same – the X-Force team already uncovered more than 1600 security-related threats in the first quarter of the year; nearly 48% of which allowed unauthorized access to a compromised system.

Print | Email | Discuss this article

| Share |

READERS' COMMENTS

Click here to post a comment

Add your Comment All posts are sent to the administrator for review and are published only after approval. ArabianBusiness.com reserves the right to remove any comment at any time for any reason. Please keep your responses appropriate and on topic. Arabian Business would like to point out that only comments relevant to the story will be published. Any containing personal insults or inappropriate language will not be approved.
Name *
Remember me on this computer
Email *	(Your email address will not be published)
City
Country
Subject *
Comment *
Notify me of further comments
Enter the words above *
Please click post only once - your comment will not be published immediately.

MORE FROM ARABIANBUSINESS.COM