Linux runs about 72% of IoT devices, 90% of cloud infrastructure, and all of the top 500 supercomputers, making the operating systems a lucrative target for cybercriminals. It seems they are taking notice, as Linux malware rose by 35% in 2021.
Most Linux malware is focused on distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks and botnets, but other forms of malware are beginning to make waves as well.
In the first half of 2020 alone, Golang malware written for Linux increased by 500%. In 2021, we saw the infamous Mirai botnet, XorDDoS, and Mozi accounting for 22% of all Linux malware, with Mozi showing 10x growth and XorDDoS increasing by 123%.
Acronis Cyber Protect uses machine intelligence and behavioral detection techniques to identify and block all forms of malware — including Linux-focused threats — keeping your data safe no matter what operating system you choose.
