Phishing attacks now account for just over 50 per cent of all virus threats, according to new figures from managed security firm, Network Box. This figure (50.6 per cent) is the highest it has been so far this year, and is up from 33 per cent one month ago.

The top source of viruses is the US, which this month accounts for just over 21 (21.66) per cent of the world's viruses. This figure is significantly higher than at the start of the year, when the US produced between 13 and 15 per cent of viruses.

Simon Heron, Internet Security Analyst at Network Box, says that companies should review some basic security measures when the economy is depressed: "A poor economy means greater numbers of disgruntled employees, desperate individuals trying to make money and increased opportunity as we become more technologically enabled."

Heron is clear that common sense measures can be enough to keep a company protected. "Prevention is much cheaper than cure. There are simple steps that companies can follow. Don't send out unencrypted financial information. Educate your employees not to fall victim to phishing scams. And have an acceptable usage policy in place across the company."

Korea continues to offer a significant threat in the number of viruses it produces: nearly 11 (10.9) per cent in March, roughly the same as in February. China is responsible for 5.3 per cent of viruses, and 5.5 per cent of all spam.

Top Ten Viruses in March 2009

Top Ten Trojans

Top Ten Intrusions

Top Ten Sources of Viruses

Top Ten Sources of Spam

Top Ten Sources of Intrusions

Back