'New Internet security threats surge this year'

If Symantec Corporation's Internet Security Threat Report, Volume 16 is anything to go by, it is now mobile devices and social networking sites that are acting as attack distribution platform for internet security attackers.

According to the report, the last one year has seen dramatic increases in both the frequency and sophistication of targeted attacks on enterprises; continued growth of social networking sites as an attack distribution platform and a change in the attackers' infection tactics.

In addition, the report explores how attackers are exhibiting a notable shift in focus toward mobile devices.

The new threat volume this year has also surged to more than 286 million, indicating several new mega-trends in the threat landscape.

"The growing prevalence and capabilities of the most visible cyber-events of 2010, Stuxnet and Hydraq, have turned the focus on protecting businesses and critical infrastructure." said Shantanu Ghosh, vice president, India Product Operations, Symantec.