Spyware looks to be growing in corporates

Webroot Software report claims that criminals are developing and deploying new tactics

Despite a raft of measures and a flurry of products, spyware is on the increase in the corporate space, according to the latest report from anti-spyware vendor Webroot Software.

The report, State of Spyware, claims that criminals are developing and deploying new tactics to speed the proliferation of spyware, with the number of reported corporate spyware incidents across the UK increasing by 19 per cent in the last quarter.

In addition, Webroot’s Threat Research Team discovered spyware writers are growing their distribution channels and entering new markets, with the number of web sites distributing spyware quadrupling since the beginning of 2005. New spyware sites have doubled in the same period to over 100,000.

David Moll, chief executive of Webroot, said: “Unlike virus writers, spyware purveyors are motivated by profit – whether it’s a penny per pop-up or a keylogger that captures valuable account information.”

Daniel Mothersdale, marketing director of EMEA at Webroot, added: “State of Spyware keeps our channel up to date with the latest issues and details topics that are seen as threats today. It also informs them on legislation throughout EMEA, increased occurrence and worldwide threat.”

John McCann, director of Webroot reseller TCL Group, said: “It is crucial for the channel not only to understand spyware issues, but also to be confident that when we speak to our customers we have the assurance that the information we are discussing is accurate and up to date.”