BullGuard Sniffs Out Top Security Threats for 2012

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If you managed to steer clear of all the security threats in 2011, you're obviously doing something right. From hacked websites and Android malware, to the release of the Zeus trojan source code on the Web and everything else, it's been a busy year in the field of security. As we look ahead to 2012, do you know which threats to watch out for?

Security firm BullGuard compiled a list of five key areas it believes will be likely targets for cyber criminals in the coming year. They are:

1. The Cloud
   
2. QR Codes
   
3. Internet-connected TVs
   
4. Smartphones and tablets
   
5. Windows 8
   

Some of these are no-brainers, but two that stand out are QR codes and Internet-connected TVs. BullGuard envisions malicious QR codes duping people into forking over sensitive information on malicious websites, like credit card numbers, and with Internet-connected TVs expected to grow to 118 million units by 2014, this could very easily become a popular target for hackers.

So, should you be worried?

"Yes and no," says CTO of BullGuard, Claus Villumsen. "There’s no doubt that recent and future developments designed to bring our technology into the modern age brings with it a range of exciting benefits and conveniences to the consumer, but we urge people to remain vigilant and consider the potential threats that may emerge. Entering sensitive data such as credit card details or bank information into a device capable of accessing the internet, and in the case of loss or theft even those that aren’t, is something everyone should be wary of."

As always, surf safely and practice common sense computing habits.

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