Microsoft: "Local malware" is latest IT security threat in Latin America

Locally produced malware represents the newest IT security threat in Latin America, Microsoft's (Nasdaq: MSFT) Latin America security division head Christian Linacre told BNamericas. Linacre said much of the malware which previously circulated in Latin America had originated from other parts of the world such as the US, Eastern Europe and Asia. During the past few months, Microsoft has received increasing reports of malware produced in Latin America that specifically targets regional firms and end users. "It's malicious software... in Spanish or Portuguese," he said. "It's software that's specially designed to steal specific information that is valuable in Latin American countries." Linacre said most of the Latin American malware focuses on stealing passwords and other access information. He said Microsoft is continuing to monitor the trend, and that the firm will include its findings on this type of malware in its next regional security report, which is set to be released this April. MORE ALLIANCES ON THE WAY The Chilean unit of Microsoft recently inked a deal with local IT security service providers Novared and Ultragestión to market IT security solutions in Chile. The agreement - known as the STAR program - involves several Microsoft solutions, including Forefront Security for Exchange Server and for Sharepoint, which protects e-mails; and the unified IT security solution Identity Lifecycle Manager. Linacre said Microsoft is interested in expanding its STAR program to other parts of Latin America, but could not provide further details as to which countries. The executive added that Microsoft will be launching a separate initiative, known as Navega Protegido (Navigate While Protected). He said that the program, to be launched in Argentina and then Chile at the end of March or start of April, is aimed at helping individual end users protect their private information while surfing the web. Linacre said Navega Protegido will be carried out together with local partners. DATA LOSS PREVENTION Linacre said data breaches represent the leading threat for Latin American businesses this year. Likewise, Microsoft continues to view data loss prevention as a growth opportunity in the region. Linacre previously told BNamericas that Microsoft's Latin America division is seeing increased demand for IT security solutions and expects security revenues to rise 30% during its fiscal year 2009. The interest is strongest from the financial sector, he said.