Posted by Virus Bulletin on Sep 22, 2006
Security firms complain about monopoly tactics.
New security features to be included in the next version of Microsoft Windows continue to present difficulties for AV and other security software vendors. With the first full release of Vista expected soon, and the home user version due in the new year, Symantec is sending representatives to Europe to lobby the EU on the issue, in hopes that the monopolies commission may force Microsoft into making the new system more open to competitive security software.
Symantec's main worry is the inclusion of the Windows Security Center in the new version of the OS. Although it will be possible to disable the security control and monitoring system manually, no method has been made available for other firms to deactivate it as part of installing their own software. Warnings have been issued that Microsoft having too much control over what is considered a security issue may in itself be a security issue, while others have said that publishing a way to automatically switch off the protection could be playing into hackers' hands.
Other potential problems with Vista include the possibility that the kernel may be protected, which could prevent AV and other on-access monitors from intercepting file access. The infamous Blue Pill rootkit, capable of totally concealing malicious activity under Vista, has yet to be protected against.
Joining Symantec in Europe are representatives from Adobe, who fear the inclusion of PDF software in Vista will eat into their business. Symantec is also in a legal battle with Microsoft over alleged use of its Veritas technology in Vista.
Posted on 22 September 2006 by Virus Bulletin
