More malware for 2009

Johannesburg, 13 Jan 2009

With a significant increase in malware strains seen between January and August 2008, Panda security predicts 2009 will be a dangerous year for many computer users.

The company says its lab detected “as many malware strains as in the previous 17 years combined” last year and predicts this trend will continue.

Banker Trojans and fake anti-viruses will be the most prevalent malware types in 2009.

With regards to methods of malware distribution, Panda has predicted an increased use of social networks by worms trying to spread from one user to another and by malicious code designed to carry out more dangerous actions like theft of confidential data. Malware distribution through SQL injection attacks will continue to rise.

Panda Security's laboratory forecasts a significant proliferation of malware targeting new platforms such as Mac OS Leopard X, Linux or iPhone. However, these new codes will never be as numerous as those for Windows systems.

“The number of malware strains created for Mac or Linux platforms will grow in 2009, although they will still represent a very low percentage compared to the total number of threats,” says Jeremy Matthews, head of Panda Security's sub-Saharan operations.

PandaLabs has also conducted research showing links between the financial crisis and malware strategies. “Malware in 2009 is expected to grow and become more sophisticated and more difficult to detect. There will also be an increase in Web-based attacks and attacks through social networks, which allow for more silent infections,” states Matthews. “The financial crisis will also bring an increase in malware and false job offers.”