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IT security vendor Kaspersky Lab, in its recent research with B2B International, has said that 62% of users have not even heard about the most dangerous online threats, namely Stuxnet, Duqu, and Zeus. Altaf Halde, MD, Kaspersky Lab-South Asia, discusses the implications of the research on Indian users with M Saraswathy. Excepts:
Would it be right say that India faces the maximum threat from the malware?
India potentially has the maximum risk, due to the fact that the awareness levels here are very low. The participants of the survey, who represented 25 countries - were also asked about zero-day attacks and botnets and the result was almost the same. The users knew no more about these threats than about the above-mentioned malware. The situation with mobile devices is even more complicated, as about 16% of tablet owners and 15% of modern smartphone users are sure their devices are in no danger.
Why is India so prone to these malware?
India has one of the lowest data charges. As a result, it is more easier for people to try out new websites and open 'suspicious' links on their devices. Also, here there are options for file-sharing available on the smartphone platform, which makes users even more vulnerable. Through this medium, anti-social elements can take control over your device.
Which are the devices that are the most prone to these attacks?
Traditionally, windows vulnerabilities have been exploited time and again. However, these days, due to the alarming popularity of Android, the threat exposure is maximum in such devices. At the same time, malware writers are also focusing on Apple as its user-base is on the rise.
What are some tips for users to stay away from these malware?
We would advise users to take all necessary precautions while downloading any file or application. Moreover, each device user should have atleast some kind of module installed on their device which is regularly updated to detect and remove malware. Users should never click on 'pop-ups' and only visit trusted sites for downloading applications. Overall, there should be a 'controlled' usage of devices.
What are the challenges going forward?
File-sharing options on smartphones will be a big feature on devices in the coming time. This will be a crucial area, where the risks would also be very high. Further, we see malware targeting different type of devices using different mechanisms. So, the threats will only be on the rise.
