Rating:  Summary: Explains virus writer psychology & industry politics well Review: This is a quirky but entertaining little book. It contains the best description I've found on the psychology and dynamics of the virus-writing community. The interesting thing about the AV business is that the software vendors are often just as colorful as the people writing the viruses. This book captures the melodrama of the anti-virus industry and accurately portrays the spy vs spy nature of the constant escalations between the attackers and the defenders. The author is absolutely correct--they do know each other and they do talk. Most purchasers of AV software have no idea how flamboyant the personalities are at the helms of their software suppliers.I can confirm several of the outlandish stories contained in Smith's book. I have no reason to doubt anything he says--it seems completely consistent with my experiences. Besides providing a helpful understanding of the nature of hostile code and its source, this book is also an excellent read. It is enjoyable and engrossing. It does not delve into the bits & bytes of viruses, nor does it discuss the mechanics of transmission and reproduction mechanisms. If you want that, read Fred Cohen or Alan Solomon. Unlike their books, this one is not only educational, but is also entertaining.
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