Rootkits - Risk, Issues and Prevention [ PDF ]

Rootkits have been around almost since the start of computing, however over the last two years the threat has changed; no longer is it just a *NIX [Unix/Linux] problem, corporate and academic computers running Microsoft Windows are now an increasing target. We are now at a tipping point; rootkits are no longer a minor annoyance or threat, they are starting to become a major cause for concern.

Many corporate security staff have a rather vague understanding of rootkits, not just what they are, but how they work. Furthermore many have little understanding of the risks to their company or their own home computer.

This paper will explain what rootkits are and how they work. It will also discuss ways to combat them using methods that range from simple security methodologies through to technical solutions.