Hacking Made Easy

Russia has a work force that is technologically skilled and underemployed. As a result, some savvy tech workers turn to crime, creating web sites and software aimed to collect financial details from unsuspecting victims in the US, Europe and South America. The Russian internet is home to sites that can break into computers abroad through a security hole in Microsoft's Internet Explorer web browser. The hackers can then install programs called "keyloggers" that collect passwords and keystrokes, uploading all that information to a massive database. Security experts note that the software is often reproduced, sold or rented to criminal groups. The hackers can even block anti-virus programs, or add or delete files on infected computers, allowing criminals to control legitimate websites to trick people into releasing financial information. Some programs, called "screen scrapers" or "screen snatchers," can also remotely copy screen images. Most owners are unaware that their computers or sites have been infiltrated. The trend points to a "commercialization of crime," according to one analyst, and even the most secure corporate computer operations have been deceived. The convenience and innovations of the internet that brought joy to so many users now brings succor to criminals. – YaleGlobal