Web Threats

Web threats are any threat that uses the Internet to perform malicious activities. They arrive, spread, deliver additional exploits and entrench themselves via the Internet and may include trojan horse programs, spyware, adware, pharming and other malware. They also may be triggered by a hyperlink or an executable file attachment in a spam email.

Web threats are more pervasive today and the fastest growing threat vector. They are technologically sophisticated, comprised of multiple components, and spawn numerous variants. What’s creating this perfect storm? A combination of several factors including:

• More and more people go online worldwide every day.
• The Web is becoming an intrinsic part of their lives replacing many activities that used to be accomplished offline, like banking, shopping and research.
• Web 2.0 and its associated technologies, sites, and services that emphasize online collaboration, sharing and user-generated content are more popular than ever.
• Hackers and cybercriminals are motivated by money.

For more detailed information:

• Download our Web threat white paper
• Read our Web threat brochure
• Listen to our Web threat podcast

Real World Example

• As an attachment to a spam mail presenting itself as a video news clip containing information about supposed global political events
• A file downloaded unknowingly by users when visiting malicious URLs

Upon execution, the trojan downloaded and executed additional malicious files and connected to web sites to create a peer-to-peer controlled botnet, enabling the PC to be used to send spam or infecting it with adware, spyware or other malware. It affected both businesses and consumers worldwide.

New Threat Protection Strategies Needed

• Comprehensive. Tracks lifecycle for hundreds of millions of Web domains.
• Real time. Provides continuous updates and live reputation feeds.
• Proven. Extends Network Reputation Service anti-spam protection to the Web.
  

Web Reputation Benefits

• Helps to combat phishing and URL usurpation
• Guards against spyware attempts to send stolen information to hackers and cybercriminals
• Complements traditional content inspection for optimum threat protection
• Does not impact PC performance or alter Web surfing experience