The internet has long been considered a dangerous place due to the plethora of malware on the prowl. However, the danger became even more potent once Koobface stepped into the picture in 2008. Proving to be a real hard nut to crack for the security experts, the cross-platform computer worm gave Internet users their first taste of a threat that was not shackled by operating systems. On the contrary, Koobface had a unique ability to hop from one operating platform to another, exhibiting absolutely no prejudice as it added computer after computer to its list of victims using a wide range of aliases, leaving everyone from the Windows and Mac users to the Linux users crying out for help. Perplexed by the flexible nature of the malware and unable to understand what it was exactly trying to achieve, security heads experts kept scratching their heads in confusion as the malware continued to spread across thousands of computer through means of social media websites, email outlets and instant messaging programs. Furthermore, it helped the perpetrator generate revenue through pay-per-click frauds and even installation of spyware, with the latter giving them an unhindered access to victim’s private and sensitive data. Facebook, Gmail and Yahoo Mail were among the most popular hunting grounds for Koobface, though they eventually had their protection bolstered, forcing the malware to explore new options. Despite being an extremely potent threat, the malware is not exactly infallible but can in fact be easily tamed. All it requires is a substantial amount of vigilance on the part of the Internet user, quick response in case of a compromised PC, and an updated antivirus on the system. The threat of Koobface may not be considered as grave as it was a few years back, but it is still very effective against computers that lack adequate protection or Internet users who are careless online.
By: Computer monitoring Software MobiStealth
