Threat Check

What types of threats have been plaguing computer users this past month? Take a look, below, at the top threats creating a buzz among Ad-Aware users in the Lavasoft Support Forums.

1. Win32.Worm.Warezov
Win32.Worm.Warezov is a worm that spreads through e-mail. When infecting a new computer it will scan it for e-mail addresses and then mail itself to those addresses. It may also change the Hosts file, stopping the user from accessing certain web sites.

2. Win32.TrojanDownloader.Zlob
Win32.TrojanDownloader.Zlob is the "original" fake codec malware. It disguises itself as a media codec that is needed to be installed for the user to view a certain movie (often pornographic content). Once installed, the user will get a barrage of pop-ups and security warnings consisting mainly of casino advertisements and rogue applications.

3. Virtumonde
Virtumonde, also known as Vundo, is a type of malware/adware that often requires special help, or tools, to remove. It hooks itself into the system and then displays pop-ups. It has also been seen, though not as commonly, popping-up fake alerts for rogue anti-spyware.

4. FakeAlert
FakeAlert is a type of Trojan that presents false system messages with the intention of frightening the user into downloading and buying rogue security software.

5. Win32.Trojan.Agent
Win32.Trojan.Agent is a generic family for Trojans. A Trojan is a program that appears to do one thing but actually does another.

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Have a question about one of these threats? Need guidance on how to rid your computer of spyware and malware? Take advantage of free support from our worldwide volunteer security network at the Lavasoft Support Forums.