Antivirus Software Conspiracy Theory

Basically, this theory goes like this: antivirus (and computer security) software companies enjoy increased revenues when there are more security threats, like viruses and malware. As a result, they have an incentive to fund the development of malicious software—thus increasing demand for their products.

One guy on a forum claims:

i actually know a computer savvy guy who used to get paid in cash by a large anti virus company to develop viruses. food for thought

Beyond that, I've yet to find any evidence in support of these theory.

Further reading:

• Top 10 Explanations to Believe in a Computer Virus Conspiracy
• Could the Antivirus Industry Be Writing the Viruses that Cause Us to Buy Their Products?
• Debunking Antivirus Conspiracy Theories