Number of attacks via instant messages increased by 500%

The number of viruses and worms such as Browaf, Tilebot and Khoobe released through instant messaging systems rose to a record in May. This shows that hackers are viewing IM (Instant Messenger) as an effective way to control computers. user.

The American Postini integrated messaging management company said that IM traffic has increased by 138% over the past 30 days and the number of attacks has increased by five times.

" This statistic indicates that companies are evaluating IM as a key communication tool in businesses, " said Andrew Lochart, Postini's market manager. " But hackers understand very well that most organizations are not equipped with protection software to counter the risks spread through IM ."

Even so, Lochart also recommends that instant messaging still accounts for a small percentage of e-mail exploits. Therefore, companies need to protect their systems "on both fronts". Postini recorded more than 25 billion e-mails sent worldwide last month, but 86% of e-mails contain dangerous software.

TN