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Microsoft automates Malware Classification
Microsoft is working on an automated way to sort through the thousands of malware families and variants attacking Windows computers.
Microsoft unveiled its plans at the EICAR (European Institute for Computer Anti-Virus Research) conference in Hamburg, Germany, proposing the use of distance measure and machine learning technologies to come up with automatic classification of viruses, Trojans, spyware, rootkits and other malicious software programs. A research paper presented by Microsoft’s lead anti-virus researcher, Tony Lee, described the existing process of manual human malware analysis as “inefficient and inadequate” and suggested an ambitious method that combines runtime behavior analysis, static binary analysis and adaptable algorithms to automate classification.
Spyware, Rootkit Maker Stops Distribution
ContextPlus, an adware company implicated in a large number of stealth rootkit infections, has stopped distributing its software, citing concerns over the practices of some distribution partners.
In a brief note posted on its home page, ContextPlus said it is “no longer able to ensure the highest standards of quality and customer care” and will stop further distribution of the “one-to-one desktop marketing” software.According to statistics released by Microsoft, about 20 percent of all malware deleted by its monthly malicious software removal tool are stealth rootkits.
F-Secure has confirmed a noticeable decline in Apropos detections since the ContextPlus shutdown.
ChatPatrol Secure Instant Messaging Adds ICQ Support
ELMTree Software has released version 1.91 of ChatPatrol (www.chatpatrol.com) now with support for ICQ!
ChatPatrol provides seamless AES 256 bit encrypted instant messaging security for all clients that can connect to AOL, Yahoo, MSN, the official GoogleTalk client and now ICQ!