mal·ware (māl’wâr’)
n. Malicious computer software that interferes with normal computer functions or sends personal data about the user to unauthorized parties over the Internet.
Although the news media usually focuses on more widespread attacks like the recent Conficker worm, there is a new generation of malware aimed solely at gathering information or data from specific targets. An article from cutting-edge IT security site Dark Reading describes one such program:
One piece of malware found on a desktop machine during a forensics investigation was actually pre-coded to steal specific information from the victim’s organization, says Greg Hoglund, CEO and founder of HBGary, whose company sees about 5,000 new pieces of malware a day. “It knew what it was looking for,” he says. And the malware was disposable so that it could disappear without a trace after doing its dirty work.
Sometimes, things that are vital to your business can also provide opportunities for unscrupulous individuals. With the realities of business today mandating that you be thoroughly networked to compete, the best way to prevent a security breach from creating an issue is to include the possibility in your crisis management plans from the start.
JB
Jonathan Bernstein
https://www.bernsteincrisismanagement.com/