The Internet today offers wider and deeper online social networks, new and possibly landscape-changing technologies from application to infrastructure level—like cloud computing, IPv6, and virtualization, along with more insidious challenges to security. These challenges are propelled to a certain extent by cybercriminal efforts to obtain profit.

While it is difficult to cover every possible threat eventuality that may take place in 2010 and beyond, this report is the collective insight of Trend Micro threat experts, researchers, and engineers. Their combined knowledge of the existing computing landscape plus their years of experience in the field of security enable them to identify real-world technological trends and threats for home users and businesses in 2010 and beyond.

TrendLabs analysis indicates that a new piece of malware is now created every 1.5 seconds. Given the speed with which it is being created combined with the malicious intent to defraud innocent computer users and reputable businesses, a new set of technologies and new methods need to be employed. Traditional virus patterns and spam filters alone will not be sufficient.

• Cybercriminals will formulate more direct and brazen extortion tactics to obtain quicker access to cash.
• It’s business as usual for botnets, but heavier monetization by botnet herders.
• Social media will be used by malware to enter the users’ “circle of trust.”
• Web threats will continue to plague Internet users.
• Cloud computing will present new security challenges.
• Changes in the Internet infrastructure will widen the playing field for cybercriminals.