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GNU/Linux: Don’t Call Them PC Viruses |
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Source: ERCC Blog - Posted by Alex
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The fact that malware are written primarily for PC systems is a given and is well reported in the news. The fact that malware are written primarily for Microsoft Windows based PC systems is often not reported. When such a connection is made in the press or on a Microsoft friendly web site then the caveat is often added that Microsoft Windows suffers from popularity. The argument is that because Microsoft Windows is so ubiquitous it gives a good “Return On Investment” to malware writers.
Supposedly these malware writers do not target other operating systems because they want to get the most bang for their buck. I call that hogwash. The reason Microsoft Windows is so often successfully attacked is because of its flawed security design. I run FreeBSD Unix and Mandriva GNU/Linux on my PC systems. I keep my systems patched with up to date bug fixes and security fixes. I will not install software that I do not know from whence it originates. I do not run any anti-virus software and yet I will never get a “PC Virus” on these systems. There is no such thing as a “PC Virus”, call them “Microsoft Windows Viruses” or “GNU/Linux Viruses” or “Apple OS X Viruses” depending on the operating system which they successfully attack. Don’t call them “PC Viruses”.
What is a Virus? I refer people to this definition when asked: The Difference Between a Computer Virus, Worm and Trojan Horse. So, a Virus must be able to be shared and operate easily by user to user transfer to be successful.
Read this full article at ERCC Blog
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