15 million new malware samples were generated, at an average rate of 160,000 every day, according to the latest report from Panda Security.
Trojans are still the most common type of malware, accounting for 58.20% of newly created threats; this is notably lower than the percentage recorded in the previous quarter said the report. This, however, is not so much due to a drop in number of new Trojans rather to a substantial increase in PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs).
Software bundlers
Over recent months the security company has witnessed a significant increase in the creation of software bundlers, programs that install PUPs on computers along with the programs that the user actually wants to install - without asking for the user’s consent.
Although these bundlers have been around for some time, new companies have sprung up who exploit these programs and profit from installing unwanted software without properly informing the user.
When it comes to worldwide stats, China (51%) had the highest infection rate of any country. The UK came halfway down that list with 25% - well below the global average of 37%.
Major action against cybercrime
The report also said that the FBI and the National Crime Agency’s temporary disruption of the Gameover Zeus botnet reduced infection rates and allowed users to remediate their machines and install security software.
Protect yourself against these types of threats
- Always use legitimate antivirus software and keep it up to date.
- Avoid opening attachments or clicking on website links from unknown sources.
- Know and understand what you are installing on a personal device.
- Always keep your firewall switched on.
- Exercise the same level of caution in the virtual environments as you would in physical environments.
Read more on the Panda Security website.
Please note: Action Fraud is not responsible for the content on external websites.
If you are a victim of malicious software, report it to Action Fraud.
