As explained in a recent article at TechShout, the Storm Worm email virus, which first attacked in January 2007, tries to trick recipients into opening an executable attachment file that can hijack their computers. Security companies have said that Storm Worm has managed to quickly drive global virus levels 60 times higher than their daily average.
Once installed on a personal computer, Storm Worm takes control of the machine by adding the infected Windows PC to a “bot army” of compromised computers that are connected to a custom peer-to-pear network where it can download new updates, upload personal information from the compromised computer, and scan e-mail addresses to send out spam to further the attacks.
According to Adam Swidler, senior manager of solutions marketing at security firm Postini, the virus can be detected by up-to-date antivirus software. Its spread can be controlled by most Internet providers using up-to-date virus filters. These filters should stop it before it reaches inboxes.
However, the best solution to avoid serious trouble, said Swidler, is to delete any e-mails with subject lines that refer to the worms or the word love. “Definitely don’t click the attachments,” he added.
A serious problem for Windows users. Here’s an update from Michael…
The Storm Worm is turning out to be one of the most resilient attacks in history. The creators use spam messages to entice users to a malicious Web site. The site uses JavaScript to launch exploits against your browser and programs. If this attack fails, you’re encouraged to download the virus manually. The virus turns your machine into a zombie.
Spam messages associated with the Storm Worm have taken many forms. [Recently], it was coming as confirmation messages from various sites. It has also taken the form of e-card spam. The messages originally warned of a European storm. Now, they entice you with a YouTube video.
Folks, the creators of the Storm Worm have planned the attack carefully and they’re staying ahead of security warnings. Make sure your security programs are updated and Windows is fully patched. And be careful where you click.
And one final note:
Infected computers generally show little sign of their infection; they just become unwilling members of the worm’s “bot army”. But emails you send to friends and business associates can be infected and their data compromised. Best to (1) trash suspicious emails, and (2) update and use your virus software often. More here.