New Study Highlights Dangers, Costs Associated with Malware in Pirated Software CSO Online
go to original March 20, 2014

Criminals, by their very nature, can’t be trusted. It may seem like a bargain to be able to get pirated software cheap, or even free, but when you acquire software illegally you also open yourself up to other risks and security concerns. The cybercriminals that distribute the pirated software aren’t just acting as Robinhood-esque philanthropists. There are ulterior, insidious motives as well, and that’s why malware in pirated software is costing the world billions of dollars.

Microsoft worked with IDC and the National University of Singapore to investigate the prevalence of malicious code in pirated software, and to explore the link between that malware and organized cybercrime. The study was conducted on 203 computers, spanning 11 nations (Brazil, China, India, Indonesia, Mexico, Russia, South Korea, Thailand, Turkey, Ukraine, and the United States). The study also includes results of a survey of 951 consumers and 450 IT professionals across 15 nations, and a survey of 302 government officials from six countries.

Researchers determined that there is a 33 percent chance of encountering malware when installing pirated software or purchasing a PC that includes pre-installed pirated software. The forensic analysis of the 203 computers in this study by the National University of Singapore found that 61 percent of the machines that had pirated software installed were also infected by malware.

... The Microsoft Digital Crimes Unit (DCU) is spotlighting the risks associated with pirated software as a part of its annual Play It Safe Day. To help you recognize and avoid pirated software, Microsoft provides tips and resources on the HowToTell.com website.

Read the rest at CSO Online

Photo: SoftPedia

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