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New Version of Conficker Virus Can Update Itself
Just as Microsoft has decided it's done playing games, and has put a price on the head of the hackers behind Conficker, the elusive cyber-criminals have upped the ante. A new version of the malware, dubbed Conficker B++, is spreading like wildfire, thanks to a newly unplugged security hole and self-updating features.
The new version allows the virus to download updates that could potentially give it new abilities and ways of spreading. It also skips the download of Antivirus XP, a fake security program that once lured victims into handing over credit card information and later became a dead giveaway of a Conficker infection.
Experts believe that older versions of the virus will not be able to automatically update to the newer version and that systems with the proper security updates from Microsoft should be safe. But that's no excuse for letting yourself get comfortable. Programs such as Conficker are dangerous, and only your own due diligence can keep you safe. So run regular scans and keep Windows, as well as your anti-virus and anti-spyware tools, up-to-date. [From: CNET]
Related Links:
http://www.switched.com/2009/02/24/new-version-of-conficker-virus-can-update-itself/
What Is the Conficker Virus and Should You Be Worried?
Conficker, also known as Downadup or Kido, is the latest super virus to spread around the Internet and has security experts in a panic. When last we checked, about a week ago, Conficker had already spread to 9 million PCs, with little sign of slowing. Now it has infected at least 10 million PCs and experts believe there may be up to 350 million vulnerable computers out there.
The worm isn't just exploiting a networking hole, however; it features a sophisticated method of cracking administrator passwords, making it difficult to remove, and also copies itself to USB drives so that it can spread even when the online flaw is plugged.
What havoc has it wreaked so far?
So far this schizophrenic virus hasn't caused any serious damage. Its primary effect has been to prevent people from installing Windows updates and anti-virus software that could potentially thwart the malware. What worries security experts, though, is Conficker's ability to launch a second stage, downloading additional code that could hijack computers completely, steal personal information, or commit basic extortion -- demanding money for fake anti-virus software claiming to remove the infection.
How do you know you have it? What are the symptoms?
Since it is currently sitting dormant, possibly awaiting further instructions, Conficker is very difficult to detect without running an up-to-date virus and malware scanner. However, if your Internet connection is running abnormally slowly, if services such as Windows Defender is disabled, or if you are unable to access some security-related Web sites (like those for anti-virus programs), then you may be infected and should certainly follow the removal directions included below.
Is it the biggest virus ever?
Conficker has certainly spread far and wide, and gathered its fair share of media attention, but is it the biggest virus ever? That remains to be seen. It is certainly the biggest threat to personal computer security to come along in the last few years and would easily claim a spot on our list of the 15 Sneakiest Computer Viruses.
What can you do to stay safe?
Microsoft has already issued a fix for defeating the worm, but a full 30-percent of Windows PCs have yet to download the security update. So make sure you run Windows update and download the latest fixes. The latest versions of Norton, Kaspersky, McAfee, and the Switched-endorsed AVG are all capable of detecting and blocking Conficker, so make sure you have downloaded all updates to your anti-virus software.
Experts also suggest disabling autorun to prevent yourself from becoming infected via USB drive. Turning off autorun isn't easily done, so follow these directions:
- Go to the Start Menu and select 'Run'
- Run the following command: gpedit.msc
- In the Group Policy window go to Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> System
- Under 'System,' double-click the 'Turn Off AutoPlay' option from the right hand pane
- Select 'Enable' and choose 'All drives' from the drop down menu
No. There's no need to buy a new computer, as most security programs offer ways to remove the worm.
If you think you're infected, download and run Microsoft's Malicious Software Removal Tool, or follow the directions found here to manually remove the worm.
Will it strike again? If so, where and how?
It's impossible to know if and when Conficker will strike again, especially since it is still running free and has yet to reveal its true purpose. Since Conficker is capable of downloading additional malicious code, it is also capable of self-updating. This function allows the worm to take advantage of other security holes once the ones it currently exploits are closed.
Potentially, Conficker could hang around for a very long time, or resurface in a slightly different form down the road. Knowing exactly when or where Conficker will rear its ugly head is simply impossible, but you can keep yourself safe by making sure your PC and security software (that includes anti-virus, spyware tools, and firewall) are up-to-date. Also, be sure to practice good browsing habits: avoid opening e-mail attachments from unknown addresses, don't download software from questionable sources, and stay away from sites whose security and legitimacy are uncertain.
15 Sneakiest Computer Viruses
As more computer users become wise to viruses, the criminals behind them are often a few steps ahead. Some malware infects your computer without you ever realizing it and then can truly mess up your life. Others arrive as a result of user mistakes, then do their dirty work undetected. We've got the scoop on 15 of the most devious and crafty viruses currently out there, including information on how they can harm you and tips on how to protect yourself against them. Click on below to find out more....
http://www.switched.com/2008/11/06/15-sneakiest-computer-viruses/
Got a Computer Virus? Here's What to Do (and Not Do)
Most of the advice is applicable to Macs, as well; although the number of known viruses for OS X is exactly zero, there have been limited cases of just-as-threatening Trojans reported. And the Mac's relative immunity to viruses likely won't remain true forever, as more and more hackers are liable to target the increasingly popular computer from Cupertino.
Get started with the first "Do" by clicking on "Next" below.
http://www.switched.com/2009/02/19/got-a-computer-virus-heres-what-to-do-and-not-do/
Virus Tip: How to Disable Print and File Sharing in Windows XP
One of the first things you should do if you think you have a virus is to quarantine your PC and disconnect from your home network to prevent the infection from spreading to other computers in your home. You don't want to disconnect from the Internet entirely however or you won't be able to download updates for your anti-virus software. Doing this on a Mac (in Preferences: Sharing) or in Vista (go to the Network and Sharing Center) is (relatively) straightforward, but under XP it takes a little maneuvering. Here's how to do it:
Disable File and Print Sharing:
- Right click on the network icon in the system tray and choose "Open Network Connections"
- Right click on "Local Area Connection" and select "Properties"
- Under the "General" tab uncheck "File and Printer Sharing for Microsoft Networks"
- Open "MyComputer"
- Click on the "Tools" menu and open "Folder Options"
- Under the "View" tab uncheck "Automatically search for network folders and printers" as well as "Use simple file sharing"
10 Ways to Speed Up Your Computer Now
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