UK Government Slams Useless Anti-Virus Industry

from the how-about-a-product-that-works? dept

It appears the UK government has caught on to what a lot of people have been noticing lately: most anti-virus software hasn't done anything to stop viruses. In fact, they found that, while 99% of companies were using anti-virus software, 68% were still infected with viruses. It makes them (and lots of others) wonder what good anti-virus software is at all. It seems clear that the tide is turning towards more proactive anti-virus methods, though there seem to be very few of these on the market. Of course, as with any new solution, in the mad dash away from the "non-working" solution, it appears that not everyone is thinking about any sort of unintended consequences of a proactive solution. Proactive solutions are much more likely to create "false positives" (something reactive anti-virus solutions rarely do). It also means that virus writers are likely to change tactics, and look to somehow piggyback new viruses on processes that look legitimate. I do think that more proactive means are necessary - but being aware of the consequences, and being prepared for them is also important. Right now, it's not clear if those pushing for proactive solutions have thought it through completely.

Leave a Comment..