Virus Making Contest has Software Security Programs Up in Arms
June 29, 2008 by Antivirus Ware.com - Download Norton Antivirus software instantly!
Computer users may be surprised to know that each year an annual hacker contest is held, but what would shock them even more is that this year there will be a virus creating contest. The Defcon hacker contest is hosting a virus creating contest called “Race to Zero”. The contest is designed to encourage participants to find a way of beating antivirus software.
Contestants that participate will be given a sample virus code and it will be their task to modify the code to attempt to sneak it past anti virus programs. Awards will be given to the participants that include most elegant obfuscation, dirtiest hack, comedic value and most deserving of a beer.
The security vendors participating in the conference are already complaining that the contest will only serve to help hackers learn new tricks. Virus companies already have some 30,000 sample virus codes to work with and contend that they have no need for more code.
While the contest is not being organized by Defcon, they are encouraging attendance and have listed the contest as an unofficial event. Contest organizers contend that it will help computer users better understand how much work goes into the design of an antivirus program.
