CastleCops was a volunteer security community focused on making the Internet a safer place. All services to the public were free, including
malware
Malware (a portmanteau for ''malicious software'') is any software intentionally designed to cause disruption to a computer, server, client, or computer network, leak private information, gain unauthorized access to information or systems, depri ...
and
rootkit
A rootkit is a collection of computer software, typically malicious, designed to enable access to a computer or an area of its software that is not otherwise allowed (for example, to an unauthorized user) and often masks its existence or the exis ...
cleanup of infected computers, malware and
phish
Phish is an American rock band formed in Burlington, Vermont, in 1983. The band is known for musical improvisation, extended jams, blending of genres, and a dedicated fan base. The band consists of guitarist Trey Anastasio, bassist Mike Gordon ...
investigations and terminations, and searchable database lists of malware and file hashes. It was targeted by spammers throughout its existence, but fought back using legal means to defeat them.
History
Education and collaborative information sharing were among CastleCops (formerly known as ''Computer Cops'' before the name change in 2005) highest priorities. They had been achieved by training the volunteer staff in their anti-malware, phishing, and rootkit academies and through additional services including CastleCops forums, news, reviews, and continuing education.
CastleCops consistently worked with industry experts and law enforcement to reach their ultimate goal in securing a safe and smart computing experience for everyone online. CastleCops reached its five-year anniversary in February 2007 with accolades from well-known computer security industry pundits and players.
On December 24, 2008, the website announced that "All things come to an end" and that CastleCops has ceased to exist, for an as yet undisclosed reason. It was later reported that the founder, Paul Laudanski, was offered a job with
Microsoft
Microsoft Corporation is an American multinational technology corporation producing computer software, consumer electronics, personal computers, and related services headquartered at the Microsoft Redmond campus located in Redmond, Washing ...
.
CastleCops Anti-Malware Site Closes Down - Slashdot
/ref> However, the domain name has remained active ever since, albeit with no content, in order to prevent it from being purchased by criminals.
Malware databases
The CastleCops "malware databases", well known in security circles, had already been moved to Systemlookup.com before the demise of the site.
Notable members
* Paul Laudanski
* Kenneth L.Fisher
* Dave Kleiman
Dave Kleiman (22 January 1967 – 26 April 2013) was an American computer forensics expert, an author or co-author of multiple books and a frequent speaker at security related events.
Craig Steven Wright claims Kleiman was involved in the in ...
* Larry H Stevenson
References
External links
CastleCops home page
CastleCops shuts up shop
— Sad demise of volunteer security community.
Spywarehammer.com
- Majority of CastleCops former Staff and Moderators can be found here.
Computer security organizations
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