Quantcast
RSS
Security March 14, 2009 12:33 PM

New Conficker Expected April 1

The next wave of the Conficker malware attacks are likely as an unpleasant April 1 surprise, say security researchers at Computer Associates. Ellen Messmer, Network World

Was this article useful? Yes 0 No 0

Graphic: Diego Aguirre
The third Conficker malware variant in infected machines is set to activate April 1, says the director of threat research at CA where the malware sample first discovered last week by Symantec is being examined.

People who read this also read:
  • Comment
  • Email
  • Print

"It's set to go off April 1, 2009 and Conficker will generate 50,000 URLS daily," says Don DeBolt, CA's director of threat research.

Generating that many URLs is a way to hide where it may be calling to download instructions from those who designed it to infected machines. It's not known exactly what those instructions might be but it could involve downloading more malicious code or destroying files. (Learn how to protect your systems.)

Antivirus vendor Symantec has also warned of a third wave of Conficker attacks.

CA says it has some ideas about where Conficker originated but isn't discussing that at present.

Podcast: Preparing for the next Conficker

Read more like this: , , ,

Was this article useful? Yes 0 No 0
Add Yours

Comments Readers reply with their ideas and expertise.

Subscribe to this discussion via email or RSS

  • What do you think?

Business News Daily

Get the latest technology news that's important to you and your business, fresh seven days a week.

Featured Webcasts
More webcasts »

Free Whitepapers

Software and Services Whitepapers from PC World

More whitepapers »

Whitepaper Alerts

Get updates on white papers, case studies, and spotlights on tech products and solutions for your business.

PC World's Marketplace

Sponsored Links