AIM Users Tricked By A New Worm

According to FaceTime Communications' security investigators, a worm has been detected with a danger level that can strike about 21.7 million users of instant messaging facility offered by AOL (AIM).

The Worm called 'W32.pipeline' can attack PCs by changing them into bots, letting criminals operate a computer & pilfer data. Worm extends via AIM & sends a file that is conceivable but is disguised as an image in a JPEG layout.

The folder then downloads different malware such as rootkits, & Trojans, which promotes the outspread of the worm via the user's buddy record. The scientists analyze that the worm has been thus configured to create a botnet, capable of attacking PCs for manifold reasons comprising the conveying of junk e-mails, executing click shams or DoS (Denial of Service) strikes. Classified data of users kept in computers is in danger too.

"It's an extremely advanced crime. Regular strikes on instant messengers are mostly centered on deceiving the users into downloading malevolent files and previous strikes have been very stark. This specific strike has placed greater stress on the spread of files and methods of communication with one another," confirmed FaceTime Communications' Chris Boyd.

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This mail feigns to have originated from a link within the user's friends record and entices them to transfer the culprit file masked like a JPEG picture file. The worm has been graded as a 'High' threat one and is presently restricted to AIM users but has possibilities of attacking other IM users also.

"In case of IM a great deal rests on the user. Since anti-virus applications are still lacking in the required sophistication, IM worms can be rather difficult to safeguard," stated Boyd.

Users of AOL are counseled against clicking on contacts that are sent out by other people, regardless of the fact that the end user is included in the friends list. It is projected that somewhere within 1000 & 2000 computers are presently affected with this lethal worm. The number might seem modest but considering the capability of the worm, it can spread very fast.

Related article: An Internet Hack That Lasted 12 Hours

» SPAMfighter News - 9/26/2006