New Windows Virus Continues to Spread, May Have Peaked

LOS ANGELES — A new virus that has been targeting Windows machines since October 2008 may have reached its peak.

The virus is called Conficker, and it propagates itself with an array of techniques. Initially, the virus exploited a vulnerability in the Microsoft Windows server service called MS08-067, but Microsoft patched up that hole soon after the virus broke.

But consumers also have cause to worry. The virus is also good at guessing passwords into sensitive areas and jumping to USB drives. According to the New York Times and other online sources, the virus is the worst online infection since 2003.

Once Conficker takes hold of a network system, it transforms all infected computers into a network of drones that deliver sensitive information back to a home server in an unknown location. Security experts say that the virus has reached a peak level of expansion at around 10 million systems, but they still don’t know who’s behind it all.

One ray of light is the virus’ regional nature. China, Russia and Brazil are home to 41 percent of the infected computers.

The U.S. Computer Emergency Readiness Team (CERT) has issued a recommendation to users, telling them to disable Windows’ AutoRun feature, but a representative for Microsoft took exception to CERT's recommendations and offered some of his own.

For more information, visit Symantac.com for a full run-down on the Conficker virus.

Related:  

Copyright © 2025 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More News

TeamSkeet, MYLF to Launch New Website FamilyStrokes.com

Sister studios TeamSkeet and MYLF are launching a new website, FamilyStrokes.com.

AV Bulletin: Age Verification Hits the Mainstream, Ofcom Sets a Date

Industry stakeholders and free speech advocates have anxiously been awaiting the Supreme Court’s decision in Free Speech Coalition v. Paxton, which could significantly impact state age verification laws around the country. In the meantime, state legislatures continue to weigh and pass AV bills, AV tech providers continue to tout their services, and legal challenges continue to play out in the courts — with some cases on hold pending the SCOTUS ruling in Paxton.

Segpay Names Kristi Greer VP of Sales

Segpay has promoted long-time employee Kristi Greer to the position of vice president of sales.

BranditScan Names Subgirl Newest Brand Ambassador

BranditScan has named content creator Subgirl its newest brand ambassador.

Arcom Reports Age Verification Enforcement Actions Against 5 Adult Sites

French media regulator Arcom released a statement Tuesday detailing recent actions to enforce age verification rules as set forth under France’s Security and Regulation of the Digital Space (SREN) law.

Pineapple Support, Clips4Sale to Host Performers' Partners Support Group

Pineapple Support and Clips4Sale are hosting a free online support group for partners and family members of adult industry professionals.

FSC Mourns the Loss of Board Director Emeritus Mark Kernes

Free Speech Coalition has released a statement regarding the passing of Board Director Emeritus Mark Kernes.

Alexa Creed Launches New Paysite

Creator Alexa Creed has launched a new membership site through MyMember.site.

Choice Talent Management Launches Fan Platform 'ChoiceFilmz'

Choice Talent Management CEO Chris Crisco has launched a new fan platform called ChoiceFilmz.

Dredd to Launch Official Site

Dredd has announced his new website OfficialDreddXXX.com, launching April 20.

Show More