Security firm McAfee has issued its predictions for the top security threats of 2008.
It forecasts that cybercriminals will set their targets on Web 2.0 sites, in particular social networks such as Facebook and MySpace.
One of the most significant developments will be the targeting of Microsoft's latest operating system, Windows Vista. Recently, most malware has been written specifically to exploit flaws in Windows XP.
Newer technologies that are becoming more common, such as VoIP (voice over internet protocol), which allows you to make telephone calls over the web will be targets too.
"Threats are increasingly moving to the web and migrating to newer technologies such as VoIP and instant messaging," said Jeff Green, senior vice president of McAfee Avert Labs and product development.
Criminals motivated by financial gain would largely be driving the attacks, said Green, and it was up to individual users to be aware of the threats and to make sure they were protected.
"Professional and organised criminals continue to drive a lot of the malicious activity. As they become increasingly sophisticated, it is more important than ever to be aware and secure when traversing the web," Green said.
www.mcafee.com
Topic: McAfee's 2008 security forecast (Read 455 times)