The spread of malicious software is on the rise, Microsoft announced through a report on Monday. The software can harm computers and open gateways for hackers and identity thieves. More than 90% of the vulnerabilities affected applications, while only 10% affected operating systems. The reports shows that Trojan downloads and high-severity vulnerabilities are on the rise too. Most malware attackers are motivated by potential financial gains. Because Microsoft’s OS, Windows, resides on about 90% of all computers, Microsoft’s systems are targeted more frequently than other systems.

As for solutions to protect users from the malicious software, Microsoft representatives said that people should frequently check for, and apply, security updates, including the ones from third-party application providers. Furthermore, they should make sure their firewall is enabled and install up-to-date antivirus and anti-spyware programs. One of the most important aspects is the one that requires caution when opening links and attachments embedded in e-mails. Hackers often use links to direct users to phony Web sites (phishing). Microsoft says that the total amount of malware removed from computers around the world by Microsoft security products in the first half of 2008 was substantially higher than in the latter half of 2007, with a 43% increase.

The increase in the removability rate comes from the fact the a great number of consumers used Microsoft’s free tools, like Windows Live OneCare scanner, Windows Defender and the malicious software removal tool. These helped users stay safer online. The data was shown in the company’s massive Security Intelligence Report, which includes charts that detail the most prevalent attacks broken down by more than 100 locations around the world.