Malicious Code Trends, Essay Example

Networks that are targets for malicious code attacks are vulnerable because they are improperly security and may possess errors in configuration. For example, the use of USB storage devices that are not properly secured, as well as open networks without proper password protection and other security measures (Symantec, 2011). The Internet poses a general threat to the security of many information systems because it is not difficult to breach security with malicious websites and links that make computers subject to continuous risk (Symantec, 2011). These attacks may ultimately compromise systems and networks, thereby increasing the level of need for security-based approaches that are comprehensive and effective in meeting the desired objectives (Symantec, 2011).

Other vulnerabilities include weak codes within software programs that are vulnerable to attack and which require higher levels of protection in order to minimize the risks of malicious attacks (Lee et.al). In these scenarios, hosts are compromised as a result of denial of service (DDoS) attack networks, and therefore, compromise system security and other weaknesses that will have a negative impact on operations and functionality of many systems (Lee et.al). With these weaknesses, individual and organizational systems are at risk of serious attacks that could ultimately compromise systems to the extent that they negatively impact functionality, often on a permanent basis (Lee et.al).

It is important to recognize the methods that are available to ensure that networks are not open to vulnerabilities, and that they possess considerable protections so that organizations are prepared to manage any potential compromises of data and information without any difficulties. This will enable organizations to improve their systems and to recognize risks on a continuous basis so that they do not devastate networks to the point that user functionality is no longer available.

References

Lee, R.B., Karig, D.K., McGregor, J.P., & Shi, Z. Enlisting hardware architecture to thwart                  malicious code injection. Retrieved from http://www.cs.jhu.edu/~rubin/courses/fall05/Lee03.pdf

Symantec (2011). Malicious code trends. Retrieved from http://www.symantec.com/threatreport/topic.jsp?id=threatreport&aid=malicious_code_trends_report