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How Viruses Evolve Into All-Purpose Malware
KingofGnG writes "Computer threats are continuously evolving, and some malicious codes are a problem difficult to tackle because of their inherent complexity and an intelligent design capable of constantly putting under pressure security companies. A remarkable 'intelligent' threat is for instance Sality, the 'new generation' file virus that according to Symantec has practically turned into an 'all-in-one' malware incorporating botnet-like functionalities as well."
Our immune system has an advantage over virii and bacteria due to our greater cell specialization and intelligent response.
First of all, you're only half-right here. Our bodies evolve diverse ecosystems of bacteria, actually varying quite a bit from person-to-person. The difference is that when we transmit bacteria from person-to-person, we might make each other sick, but that's unavoidable and actually healthy, to an extent -- it boosts our immune response. Computer systems don't get smarter when they get owned, and the risk seems much higher. (It won't kill you, but it could ruin your life, and it could ruin many lives very quickly, while in first world countries, deadly epidemics are far less common.)
Also, Apple's approval process doesn't have to restrict users from having the option to install third-party software. It just has to provide a good, safe marketplace so that users can choose to only install Apple-vetted software.
Don't thank God, thank a doctor!
Bad analogy. Police don't provide security, they maintain control. The military may provide security, but only for itself. As for intelligence agencies, they are largely a misnomer. So in the end all you have is yourself, and your community.