According to USA Today, 2005 was the worst year ever for computer security breaches.
“At least 130 reported breaches have exposed more than 55 million Americans to potential ID theft this year. Security experts warn that wayward personal data, such as Social Security and credit card numbers, could end up in the hands of criminals and feed a growing problem.”
The report also noted that an adviser for the Treasury Department’s Office of Technical Assistance estimates cybercrime proceeds were greater than those of illegal drug sales, netting an estimated $105 billion in total.
The increase in security breaches comes after the Department of Homeland Security saw it’s research budget for cybercrime slashed 7% to $16 million.
“It is difficult to measure the actual number of break-ins, since many companies are unaware they were hacked. But security experts say there is little doubt there are more digital attacks than ever.”
I have no doubt that next year I will be talking about how 2006 was the worst year ever for security breaches. The reality is that cybrcrime is more lucrative and more difficult to police than other crimes – therefore it is not surprising that it is increasing with each passing year.
Posted by Sean
