Trend Micro, citing its researchers based in the Philippines, revealed that there has been a more than 30 percent spike in the number of malicious URLs clicked in the country during the year's third quarter (July to September).
This, according to the company, leaves Filipinos more vulnerable to malware --a type of software used to disrupt computer operation, gather sensitive information, or gain access to private computer systems.
It also helped Philippines rank 7th in the list of countries that fell prey to ransomware --a type of malware that prevents or limits users from accessing their computers.
Victims of this particular malicious software are forced to pay a ransom via certain online payment methods to make their devices usable again.
Myla Pilao, Marketing Director at Trend Labs --the local arm of Trend Micro-- explained that the reason companies and enterprises in the country are vulnerable to malwares is simply because of outdated security software.
"Updating software in a timely manner remains a challenging process. However, enterprises have to stay protected against these threats. Given how easily malware can affect critical business operations, it is best for these organizations to invest in technologies that will help them secure their endpoints and systems," she said in a statement.
Trend Micro also warned that malware in the country, mostly, is still passed on through traditional methods such as infected USBs.
As a preventive measure, the company encourages businesses to invest more in computer security, and that users should be extra mindful of their browsing habits.
source: www.abs-cbnnews.com
