Wednesday, October 15, 2008
A new virus has emerged which disguises itself as a security warning from Microsoft.
Dubbed the Gibe worm, the trojan file attack appears in inboxes purporting to be a network security advisory from the software giant, about.com notes.
In actuality, the hoax email contains an attachment which will drop a trojan file on to compromised systems and mass-mail itself on to other users found in web address books.
Users should look out for emails which begin: "This is the latest version of security update, the known security vulnerabilities affecting Internet Explorer and MS Outlook/Express as well as six new vulnerabilities."
If such a message does appear, about.com advises users to delete it immediately.
For those who have been infected by the virus, manual removal of registry files and executables may be necessary.
Elsewhere, reports have circulated that hackers are looking to bypass email security by preying on fears about the health of the global economy.
Related News:
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Websense reported yesterday of malware targeting French users that appears to be taking advantage of some recent security updates from Microsoft.
Facebook has Koobface - 12.5.2008
Despite its seemingly secure system, Facebook has been infected with a virus that aims to download malware onto users' computers.
Christmas malware emails on the prowl - 12.1.2008
Emails containing a link for an animated holiday card are an early present from malware attackers.
This year's unwanted Christmas presents - 11.28.2008
There will be a sharp rise in the number of phishing attacks and online fraud this Christmas, Dark Reading has warned.


