New Cybercrime Index by Norton to Alert Users on Online Risks

Feb. 21, 2011 - PRLog -- Millions of Internet users around the world constantly face the threat of cybercrime. Cybercriminals always endeavor to breach security of websites, computer systems, mobile devices and networks to mine information, gain unauthorized control and use them for malicious purposes. Internet users are regularly targeted through spam, sophisticated phishing and spear phishing e-mails. Unsuspecting users are enticed to click on malicious links and download malicious attachments. The malicious attachments, once downloaded may install Trojans and viruses on computers. Individuals and organizations face consistent threat from botnet attacks, financial malware and other sophisticated attacks. Attackers also exploit vulnerabilities in websites to lead unwary users to seemingly legitimate, but fake websites and extract confidential information. They may also gain unauthorized remote access to computers and use them as a launch pad for spreading spam and malware to other computers. People find it challenging to stay updated on different and varied threats in the cyber space.
                               
Recently, Norton released a new cybercrime Index. The cybercrime index would enable users to gain latest updates on online hazards, most risky websites and top online scams. The index would also enable users to understand the different online threats through updates on most hijacked search terms, latest identity theft cases and spam.          
Cyberspace has become indispensable for users. Today, people use Internet for work, recreation, shopping, education, online training  and socializing among many others. However, threats in the Internet environment endanger privacy, confidentiality, identity, information and financial security of the users. The Norton Cybercrime index may help users in understanding the latest threats and initiating preventive action. The index provides the daily risk level of online threats.  
 
Crimes such as identity theft and fraud have may have serious implications for the affected individuals. Unaware of the security threats involved, people share date of birth, present location, occupational details, contact details and loads of other sensitive personal information online. Cybercriminals have leveraged the going popularity and usage of social media sites and other online channels to mine information, create fake identities and steal resources. Attackers also crack passwords and gain access to e-mail accounts, online banking and shopping accounts. Proactive deterrence is crucial to deal with the sophisticated Internet threats. Government bodies, manufacturers and security firms must initiate measures to create cyber security awareness among users through IT training  programs, video clips and webinars.    
           
The Norton cybercrime Index is based on the information gathered by Symantec Global Intelligence Network by monitoring over 130 million servers worldwide. Information concerning identity fraud and data loss is provided by ID Analytics and DataLossDB.    
                     
The cybercrime Index is available online on the company website and mobile optimized site.  Windows Vista and Windows 7 users may also download the tool on their computers. The latest Norton 360 version 5.0 also aids users in gaining quick access to the cybercrime index. Cybercrime has posed challenges for software developers and product manufacturers. Usually, developers avail the services of  penetration testers to identify and eliminate security flaws. Software developers, security firms, manufacturers of computer systems and mobile applications must continue to research and find ways to improve security.

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EC-Council                                                                                                      
Website:  http://www.eccouncil.org
Email:  iclass@eccouncil.org
Tel:  505-341-3228

EC-Council is a member-based organization that certifies individuals in cybersecurity and e-commerce skills. It is the owner and developer of 16 security certifications, including Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Computer Hacking Forensics Investigator (CHFI) and EC-Council Certified Security Analyst (ECSA)/License Penetration Tester (LPT). Its certificate programs are offered in over 60 countries around the world.

EC-Council has trained over 80,000 individuals and certified more than 30,000 members, through more than 450 training partners globally. These certifications are recognized worldwide and have received endorsements from various government agencies including the U.S. federal government via the Montgomery GI Bill, Department of Defense via DoD 8570.01-M, National Security Agency (NSA) and the Committee on National Security Systems (CNSS). EC-Council also operates EC-Council University and the global series of Hacker Halted security conferences.

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iClass is EC- Council's online training delivery platform. Students can attend live, or recorded training sessions for courses such as Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Certified Security Analyst (ECSA) or Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator (CHFI).