Fw: Re: cross-platform virus

[Sasha Tsykin]

Alan McKinnon wrote:
> On Sunday 09 April 2006 12:58, Peter Garrett wrote:
> <snip>
>> The fact that it is convenient not to have to re-type a password
>> has not escaped me. It's kind of glaringly obvious, and last time I
>> looked my IQ was above room temperature ;-)
> 
> Right now, the benefits outweigh the risk, and this default 
> configuration is likely to continue as long as that is true in real 
> life, as opposed to theoretical threats.
the risks are theoretical, but there are all sorts of things we do based 
on theoretical only risks. It is important to try to see intot eh future 
and prevent risks. That a virus will come to Linux using the sort of 
exploit discussed in this thread is inevitable, the only question is 
when ti comes will we be ready for it or will we be caught on teh back 
foot. If even one virus manages to have a significant impact it would 
destroy Linux's reputation of greater security as opposed to Windows, 
irrelevant of the facts of the situation. This would be affordable if 
Linux were big enough, but at present it would destroy both the 
Operating System and its reputation.

Sasha