Kaspersky calls for accord on cyber warfare rules

Unveiling a new antivirus engine offering better detection rates for the entire scope of emerging cyber threats, Kaspersky, the chief executive of Kaspersky Lab, one of the world’s top four leading antivirus vendors, said the international community has to try to reach an agreement governing the development, application and proliferation of these cyber weapons.

“When developing the new versions of our home user products we paid particular attention to the users’ needs as well as the threats they face. Knowing that the loss of sensitive data and money are the things that worry users most, we have developed an entire set of new protection technologies to address these concerns,” he said at the recent unveiling of Kaspersky Internet Security 2013 Premium Security Suite and Kaspersky Anti-Virus 2013 Essential Protection Solution.

Kaspersky said that a global agreement on cyber warfare would not solve all the problems, but at least it will help establish the rules of the game, integrating the new military technologies into the structure of international relations, preventing uncontrolled development and careless use.

He said that these types of malware have become the weapons of choice for cyber warfare that aims to destroy countries by attacking the very technologies that enable people’s lives.

“Cyber warfare can bring down economies especially when technology is well-integrated into major industries,” said Kaspersky.

He warned that recently uncovered malwares Stuxnet, Duqu and Flame are just the tip of the iceberg. “We can only guess what other cyber weapons are circulating around the world. I am sure we will have more discoveries soon.”

Apart from Stuxnet and Duqu, both of which were found to be targeting specific information technology hardware used in certain industries, Flame is another such malware, he said. According to Kaspersky Lab security experts, who discovered it, the Flame is a highly sophisticated malware program that is being used as a cyber weapon. It can steal valuable information — including but not limited to computer display contents, information about targeted systems, stored files, contact data and even audio conversations. Its complexity and functionality exceed those of all other known cyber weapons.

With its “hybrid protection approach and new automatic exploit prevention and safe money technologies”, Kaspersky Internet Security 2013 helps customers build the most efficient security system that is also easy to set up and use, he said.

“We believe that everyone should be free to get the most from technology — without intrusion or other security fears. Our team of specialists lets you live your digital life without worrying about your personal information and assets,” said Kaspersky.

Kaspersky said over 300 million people worldwide are protected by his products and technologies. With its corporate client base exceeding 200,000 companies, the company recorded a revenue growth of 14 per cent to $612 million in 2011.

— issacjohn@khaleejtimes.com