subject: Internet Security is the buzzword. Google to Issue Alerts against Defaced Websites [print this page] Internet Security is the buzzwordInternet Security is the buzzword. Google to Issue Alerts against Defaced Websites
Over the recent years, the number of hacking attacks has only increased. While organizations and software vendors invest considerable resources on security, there always remains scope for errors in programming, software development and human errors. These errors lead to vulnerabilities, which hackers are always prepared to exploit. Unwary visitors to a compromised website may not be aware that the website is hacked and enter sensitive authentication and personal information.
Recently, popular search engine site Google announced addition of a new feature, which would display alerts warning users against possibly hacked websites in the query results. In the recent times, hackers have frequently targeted websites of government departments and agencies across the world. Both United States and China, which have made heavy investments in technology, have witnessed recurring attacks on key websites. Therefore, information security has become a critical issue.
The recent update by Google will notify Internet users and web administrators on compromised, defaced and spammed websites. The new feature will enable Internet users to avoid infected websites. The alert may also enable web administrators to trace the perpetuators of crime and also initiate mitigating measures.
Google has incorporated automated tools to identify hacking signs on websites and display in query results. The search query will include a warning label the site may be compromised, cautioning users against using the site. The warning is automatically removed once Internet security professionals patch the security holes.
The initiative by Google comes at a time, when security experts have expressed fears of cyber war among hackers loyal to different countries. The objective of such attacks by hackers may include disruption of operations and gain access to classified documents. The recent leakage of highly confidential diplomatic cables of the U.S State department by WikiLeaks has been a wakeup call for security agencies and government departments worldwide.
The menace of cybercrime can be dealt effectively if security researchers work proactively in coordination with different security vendors, developers, government agencies and departments.
