GAUSS, JUST ANTHER VIRUS?

August 10, 2012

All we would need is a really destructive and virulent computer virus and we could be in checkmate. So far it has been a bit like the killing of a host of ever increasingly strong monsters standing row. No sooner is a monster downed, than another, stronger one, takes its place. Flame and Stuxnet are good examples of this tug of war.

Now Kaspersky Lab which creates antivirus software, has provided details on "Gauss" a malware targeting users in the Middle East, including Israel (so that counts them out!). Its aim purpose is to steal personal information including banking details, which it could use to devastating effects.

So what would happen if the monster became a Hydra? You chop one head off and several more spout out. Our whole future could be at mercy of some idiot with the skill and the will to undermine so much! There is no easy answer, but putting people like Gary McKinnon to good use, rather than hound them to the brink, would be a good start. Haven't these people seen Catch Me If You Can!