Three quarters of IT security experts distrust Microsoft security

By Matt Whipp

Posted on 1 Apr 2003 at 16:51

And indeed, Microsoft's Trustworthy Computing initiative is as much a PR campaign as it is a technology drive. Microsoft customers find it easy to hold Microsoft responsible for any vulnerabilities identified and problems that arise from this.

Microsoft's Okin said this was a benefit: 'Commercial software suppliers such as Microsoft are a point of accountability, as opposed to open source. If you're downloading applications to build up your operating system, I'd ask one question: where's your accountability.'

The report says Linux vendors will have to perfect their own patching utilities as public perception of Microsoft changes. Equally, as the take-up of Linux gathers momentum, it will present an ever larger and more attractive target for potential attackers.