While exploits targeting holes in computer software are on daily order, we are presently seeing a rise in social engineering techniques.
Computer users are relatively easily duped into downloading a slew of malware – ranging from rogue antivirus solutions, bogus applications, free music to adult content. In order to view this content, many of these “apps” require the user to first install a video codec or ActiveX component, which makes the user into easy prey for encrypted, password-protected threats.
Social engineering, in short, encompasses a set of fraudulent techniques, strongly aided by a psychological aspect, with the aim to trick computer users into performing a desired action.
The human predicament
The issue of social engineering is fast becoming the topic of the day. The fact that we humans are social creatures predisposes us to become the weakest link in the proverbial security chain. The knee-jerk reaction to what we are up against seems to be to push more education and awareness about these types of threats. Many experts, however, are skeptical. Everything related to malicious code is evolving at a phenomenal rate – the code itself, the delivery techniques, and the tricks to dupe users.
No related posts.
[...] PI Newswire :: User Is The Weakest Link Of <b>Computer Security</b> [...]