Computer Virus-Antivirus Co-evolution

Page Content

Carey Nachenberg - Symantec

Apr 03, 2002

RealVideo

Abstract

Over the past twenty years, computer viruses have evolved from simple computer programs capable of spreading on a single PC to complex software worms which can ravage global networks. Much of the evolution of new computer virus threats has come from two major sources. First, as popular new computing platforms become available virus authors seek to exploit these platforms. Second, the co-evolution of anti-virus technology has spurred the development increasingly powerful, more complex computer virus threats.

This talk examines the evolution of computer viruses, with respect to detection-avoidance, and considers the future virus threats we are likely to encounter. In addition, it takes an in-depth look at anti-virus technologies, present and future, to better understand how our computer countermeasures will have to change to provide adequate protection against tomorrow's viruses. The talk focuses on some of the more interesting algorithms and systems which have been used or are proposed in the battle to detect and repair these increasingly complex virus threats.

About the Speaker

Carey Nachenberg, chief architect at Symantec Corporation, is one of the world\'s top computer virus experts. An innovator at Symantec for the past ten years, he currently designs and develops anti-virus, content-security and vulnerability assessment technology for Symantec\'s award-winning line of products. Nachenberg has contributed to four books including Internet Security Professional Reference and Windows NT Server 4: Security, Troubleshooting and Optimization. Adept at conveying complex information in an accessible fashion, Nachenberg is a regular contributor to such computer security journals as Virus Bulletin, Secure Computing, and Communications of the ACM. He holds BS and MS degrees in Computer Science and Engineering from University of California at Los Angeles. His Masters thesis covers the topic of polymorphic computer virus detection.

Footer

Intranet Site