Anti-Virus Companies Going At Things The Wrong Way

from the but-what's-the-better-way? dept

Following last week’s story about people pushing for anti-virus software that blocks behaviors instead of specific viruses, a new study is coming out showing that the traditional method of fighting internet worms and viruses – by responding after the fact – is completely ineffective. This gets the “well, duh” award of the day. Unfortunately, the report doesn’t seem to suggest what the solution is. While people keep talking about behavioral responses (and, it’s likely that more such products will start showing up on the market), I’m still not convinced they can be effective. If you’re blocking a specific behavior there are two problems that occur: existing technology that acts in a similar way will stop working and virus writers will simply adjust their techniques to make their viruses appear more legit or piggyback on other legit actions. So, if that’s not the solution either, what is?


Rate this comment as insightful
Rate this comment as funny
You have rated this comment as insightful
You have rated this comment as funny
Flag this comment as abusive/trolling/spam
You have flagged this comment
The first word has already been claimed
The last word has already been claimed
Insightful Lightbulb icon Funny Laughing icon Abusive/trolling/spam Flag icon Insightful badge Lightbulb icon Funny badge Laughing icon Comments icon

Comments on “Anti-Virus Companies Going At Things The Wrong Way”

Subscribe: RSS Leave a comment
1 Comment
Gentle and Safe says:

No Subject Given

Yeah, I agree, but there are a few people with security sites on the net who think malware can be completely stopped by behavioral software. Well, maybe, but I’m not so sure.

Some AV manufacturers defend themselves by saying that peolpe don’t feel comfortable if they’re not getting their weekly AV update. Sort of a positive response thing.

Add Your Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Have a Techdirt Account? Sign in now. Want one? Register here

Comment Options:

Make this the or (get credits or sign in to see balance) what's this?

What's this?

Techdirt community members with Techdirt Credits can spotlight a comment as either the "First Word" or "Last Word" on a particular comment thread. Credits can be purchased at the Techdirt Insider Shop »

Follow Techdirt

Techdirt Daily Newsletter

Techdirt Deals
Techdirt Insider Discord
The latest chatter on the Techdirt Insider Discord channel...
Loading...