Update Malicious Code Protection

What it means, in context

Malicious code protection mechanisms include anti- virus signature definitions and reputation-based technologies . A variety of technologies and methods exist to limit or eliminate the effects of malicious code. Pervasive configuration management and comprehensive software integrity controls may be effective in preventing execution of unauthorized code. In addition to commercial off-the-shelf software, malicious code may also be present in custom -built software. This could include logic bombs, back doors, and other types of cyber -attacks that could affect organizational missions/business functions . Traditional malicious code protection mechanisms cannot always detect such code. In these situations, organizations rely instead on other safeguards including secure coding practices, configuration management and control, trusted procurement processes, and monitoring technologies to help ensure that software does not perform functions other than the functions intended.

Malware changes on an hourly or daily basis, and it is important to update detection and protection mechanisms frequently to maintain the effectiveness of the protection. Example You have installed anti- malware software to protect a computer from malicious code. Knowing that malware evolves rapidly, you configure the software to automatically check for malware definition updates every day and update as needed [a]. Potential Assessment Considerations • Is there a defined frequency by which malicious code protection mechanisms must be updated (e.g., frequency of automatic updates or manual processes) [a]?