Experts still think Facebook is dangerous, companies should take precautions

Friday, May 28, 2010

Recently Facebook has come under scrutiny for security glitches that have exposed personal information and allowed malware to infiltrate its site. According to experts, cybercriminals will still target the social networking site, Computerworld reports.


Within the last couple weeks two large-scale malware attacks have spread through Facebook, urging users to click on a video link that eventually leads to the installation of viruses. While the site has released security updates that allow users to adjust their privacy settings, nothing has been done about infiltration.


"I wouldn't be surprised to see another attack this weekend," said Patrik Runald, a researcher at Websense Security Labs, Computerworld relays. "Clearly, they work."


Since the site has more than 400 million registered users worldwide, companies must take precautions in case some of these users are logging on with corporate PCs and risking network infection. One solution for IT executives is to outsource their network to a third-party firm. With a managed network, IT workers can rely on outside experts to closely monitor the activity taking place. IT departments can then focus on other pressing needs.


Many companies have begun to follow this path. A recent report from Gartner found that 85 percent of companies plan to increase their outsourcing during 2010.