Jacqueline Biggs — July 13, 2006 — Tech
References: usatoday
The profit motive has never been greater for cybercrooks to take control of a PC to hijack online accounts and commit identity theft. Yet most people don't realise the degree to which their favourite software applications have come under assault, say security experts. Cyberintruders are increasingly on the hunt for vulnerabilities in popular software applications — and no longer just Microsoft's. As operating systems become more secure, cybecrooks are moving up the application layer attacking Office, iTunes or RealPlayer.
Critical security holes have been turning up in Web browsers, anti-virus programs, word processors, spreadsheets and digital media players. Apple has issued patches for vulnerabilities 35 times since January 2005, including 12 this year. Numerous have been flaws in iTunes and QuickTime digital media software. Strangely enough, Apple are keeping rather tight-lipped.
Critical security holes have been turning up in Web browsers, anti-virus programs, word processors, spreadsheets and digital media players. Apple has issued patches for vulnerabilities 35 times since January 2005, including 12 this year. Numerous have been flaws in iTunes and QuickTime digital media software. Strangely enough, Apple are keeping rather tight-lipped.
Trend Themes
1. Increasing Cyberattacks on Software Applications - Opportunity for companies to develop innovative security solutions to protect popular software applications.
2. Targeting Vulnerabilities in Non-microsoft Software - Potential for new cybersecurity companies to focus on securing software applications beyond Microsoft's operating systems.
3. Rising Security Patches for Digital Media Software - Chance for companies to develop secure digital media players and software to address vulnerabilities and protect users' information.
Industry Implications
1. Cybersecurity - Companies in the cybersecurity industry can capitalize on the increasing need for software application security.
2. Software Development - Opportunity for software development companies to innovate and create secure applications to prevent cyberattacks.
3. Digital Media - Digital media companies can seize the opportunity to develop secure media players and software to enhance user safety.
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