Security experts warn of Vista-specific malware

With Vista launching today, a security firm warned that its list of the top 10 viruses detected worldwide during November 2006 includes three types of malware capable of infecting Microsoft’s next-gen Windows platform.

Sophos reported that one Vista-affecting baddy, the Stratio-Zip worm, overtook Netsky-P as the most widely circulated piece of malware, accounting for one-third of the total threats reported.

Following Stratio-Zip by a long way is Netsky-P, which is then followed by Bagle-Zip. Zafi-B is in fourth place, followed by Netsky-D, Nyxem-D and MyDoom-O. Eighth place goes to Mytob-C, then Sality-AA and Zafi-D is in tenth.

"No operating system is 100 per cent secure as a standalone system, as end users utilise various alternative applications such as independent email clients, instant messaging, file sharing and more that open new doors for hackers," said Ron O'Brien, senior security analyst at Sophos.

"While Microsoft should be commended for the huge security improvements offered by Vista, every organisation should supplement their systems with compatible technology that defends against hackers at all entry points.

"It won't be long before cyber criminals develop Vista-specific malware or modify current threats to fit the bill. The Stratio-Zip worm, for example, remains on the top 10 list due to constant, minor alterations to its code that force security systems to re-identify the malware," added O'Brien.