So you’ve bought your antivirus software. Your data’s safe now. Right? Actually, no. What if we told you your antivirus software can be hacked and weaponised to attack the very operating system it’s supposed to protect? This revelation from RACK911 Labs perfectly demonstrates why businesses need much more robust cyber security solutions than off-the-shelf antivirus software to protect themselves from malicious online threats.
Antivirus software works by scanning new files that are saved to your hard drive. Suspicious files are quarantined in a separate, secure location for manual or automatic deletion. But here’s the rub: to perform these duties, antivirus software requires the highest level of authority within your operating system. This is its Achille’s heel; leaving it wide open to exploitation.
In the brief window between the initial file scan and the resulting clean-up operation, a malware author can leverage this privileged access to their advantage. Not only could they disable the antivirus software, but they could feasibly manipulate it to carry out self-destructive actions. During the course of their testing, Rack911 discovered they could easily delete crucial files within the antivirus software and the wider operating system.
Not good. Not good at all.
Cyber security solutions you can rely on
Remember that scene in the Matrix? The one where Morpheus offers Neo* a red pill to reveal the ‘truth of reality’ or a blue bill that keeps him living in blissful ignorance? Well, this revelation that your antivirus software can be hacked and weaponised feels a bit like a ‘red pill’ moment, doesn’t it?
But don’t despair. Because now you know the truth you can get one step ahead of the hackers.
Unplug from the mainstream antivirus software providers and team up with a Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) like Intellenet Consulting. With more than 15 years’ experience in network infrastructure and cyber security, our experts have the knowledge and technology to help you dodge the bullets of malicious cyber attacks. An extra layer of security that’s all the more important in these unprecedented times.
Wake up to the power of end-to-end security solutions, from next generation firewalls to advanced endpoint protection tools. Combat data breaches with enhanced phishing and security awareness coaching that elevates employees from weakest links to your greatest security assets. Encrypt your emails and upgrade your mobile device security. We leave no stone unturned to ensure your business is totally secure from malware, ransomware, insider threats and data leaks.
Intellenet Consulting is ‘The One’ for simplified cyber security. To arrange your FREE cyber risk assessment, or to find out more about our industry-leading cyber security packages, for more details.
* The irony that Neo was considered a cybercriminal in the Matrix franchise is not lost on us!
