It was a busy year for security firms and 2010 will be more of the same. In 2009, we called it the Godzilla of worms – Conficker and its many variants. There were more than 40 misleading applications known also as scareware, fake security software and rogue software. The publishers of these misleading applications made billions according to the FBI. Let’s not forget about the spam that came in the form of lottery winnings from Nigeria and other countries. It was quite a year!
What could we expect to see in 2010? No one, not even the top security firms know what will be the big threat and risk of 2010. In my opinion, whatever it is, it will be big.
I encourage everyone to be smart and always make sure your security applications are up to date. You can even take it one step further by downloading the mywot add-on for Firefox and Internet Explorer at mywot.com. This add-on will keep you safe from clicking on links that have been identified as dangerous by the Web of Trust community. Having a proactive tool can really make a difference for you and your family.
On the lighter side, I am still waiting on money to be deposited in my bank account by some guy from Nigeria who wants me to have it because, well, he is a spammer and he might have read my profile some where and read that I tried spam once and I didn’t like it. Oh well, I will just have to wait.
2009 Top Security Threats, Worms, and Spam
Security Tool Virus – This misleading application caused havoc for many users and TechJaws has received more than 110 comments on our article called – “How to Remove Security Tool Virus.”
Conficker – The Godzilla of worms, but it has been silenced and I hope it stays that way.
Lottery Winnings – If I had a dollar for every spam email I received telling me someone wants to send me lottery winnings or transfer money to my bank account, I would be rich.
Check out all 150+ security threats by visiting our Security category.
Happy New Year everyone!
Hey Frank, you’ve done an excellent job at keeping us alerted, not just to the threats, but also the solutions. I am sure I speak for many when I say how much I appreciate the valuable service you provide. Thanks for looking out for us bro, you’ve saved us all a lot of grief. Think I’ll go check out mywot.com.
Jonathan,
I appreciate the kind words and you are very welcome. I am looking forward to what 2010 will bring.
I have to agree… you have been doing a great job keeping people up to date with not only the latest threats, but also the solutions. There have been a few times that I have had issues with PCs at work, and I find myself coming here first to see if you have a write up on it. Great job, and looking forward to all of your insights in 2010.
Kristi,
We all love to help and you have done that as well with articles on the Thesis theme. Thank you as always!
A couple of times this year I have been an absolute hero by being able either to alert people to different types of security threats and with some assistance from your blog resolve them. In as much as I have been recognized for having any insight whatsoever to emerging internet and computer security threats it is due principally to you. Let it be resolved that I will be on your blog early and often in 2010.
Zuck,
I appreciate that a lot. Sharing is caring and I intend to do a lot more in 2010. Thanks bro!
Thanks for keeping us updated, you’re doing a great job providing the solutions too. Looking forward to see what you bring in 2010.
Marko,
Thank you for being a fan! I look forward to 2010!
I will say i was a victim of that Security virus tools bug today like 40 min ago and luckily i came across your post about removing it …
Thanks for all the hard work .. this site is booked marked and i will be checking up regulary ..
By chance any suggestions on a great antispyware program thanks
Marcel.
I am glad we were able to bail you out. You may want to check Microsoft Security Essentials. It’s free and it rocks!
I have been getting tons of fake emails promoting me to login to my paypal and facebook accounts. And to tell you the truth, I almost feel for it a few times.