The year 2003 was rough in the cybersecurity world. As internet and email use grew, corporate and home users faced rising threats from malware like Blaster and SoBig, challenging Windows network administrators. Microsoft realized it needed a new approach to protect its flagship product: a bounty program.
A new approach to fighting cybercrime
On Nov. 5, 2003, Microsoft announced the creation of an Anti-Virus Rewards Program, initially funded with $5 million in potential rewards for information leading to the arrest of creators of malware. The awards were available worldwide, with individuals with pertinent information directed to the FBI, Interpol, or the Internet Crime Complaint Center.
Microsoft initially offered two $250,000 rewards for information leading to the creators of Blaster and SoBig. The program’s only known payout came in 2004, when friends of the Sasser worm creator tipped off Microsoft. Microsoft directed the pals of Sven Jaschan to German law enforcement, and in collaboration with the FBI, officials arrested Jaschan. The arrest came only a week after the bounty was announced.
An unlikely lead brings results
Sasser’s damage was widespread, leading Delta Air Lines to cancel transatlantic flights, the British coastguard to disable its mapping systems, and the University of Missouri to disconnect its network temporarily from the wider internet. Jaschan’s friends not only revealed he had created Sasser but also pinpointed him as the brain behind Netsky.
Did you enjoy this installation of SmarterMSP’s Tech Time Warp? Check out others here.
Photo: Vershinin89 / Shutterstock
This post originally appeared on Smarter MSP.