The United States generates more malicious computer activity than any other country, and sophisticated hackers worldwide are banding together in highly efficient crime rings, according to a new report.Researchers at Cupertino-based Symantec Corp. also found that fierce competition in the criminal underworld is driving down prices for stolen financial information.

Criminals may purchase verified credit card numbers for as little as $1, and they can buy a complete identity _ a date of birth and U.S. bank account, credit card and government-issued identification numbers _ for $14, according to Symantec’s twice-yearly Internet Security Threat Report released Monday.

continued @ spokesmanreview.com