Microsoft Discovers Increase in Trojan Downloaders

Many websites that secretly download malicious software onto computers on the internet are increasing at an alarming rate. About 18 percent of security breaches online are from malicious software and hackers. Attacks made by malicious software and hackers have increased 300 percent in the number and proportion of Trojan downloaders according to a report by Microsoft's Malware Protection Center.

Many Trojan infections may start by a simple email message with a link to a web site that will install Trojan files. This is a common scenario such as in the case of Storm Worm also known as Win32/Nuwar which is a Trojan dropper. In the case of Storm Worm and many other similar Trojans they may be continually updated to avoid detection and this is what makes them so dangerous. The hackers who develop these infections are busier than ever and increasing rate of attacks.

In addition to malicious email messages we find that hackers are attacking legitimate websites through banner ads via ad networks. What better way to get a computer users attention and sneak in a Trojan than through a simple banner ad on a well-known website? Microsoft has also discovered that Adware has increased over 66 percent just in the end of last year.

Despite the scary reports from Microsoft, computer users can still make a valid attempt to protect themselves. It is suggested that all computer users who use the internet keep all security applications updated and run the latest reputable spyware, firewall and virus software available. Microsoft will also suggest that you keep the Windows operating system up to date as well to limit any discovered vulnerabilities that may allow the installation of Trojan files.