Conficker Worm Threat Lingers

(NEWSER) - An April Fools information apocalypse did not occur, but the widespread Conficker virus that caused so much fear of is still out there, CNN reports. Experts are puzzled over the lack of an attack, but the sheer size of the Conficker infection—5 million computers—yields a clue. “The more experienced attackers don’t let their viruses or their worms spread this widely,” one says. More»

Computer invader may cause trouble tomorrow

(NEWSER) - Millions of PCs have been infected with the Conficker worm, and word has it the program may cause mischief tomorrow—April Fool’s Day. But routing it out needn’t be difficult, the AP reports. Here’s how:

• The worm blocks access to Microsoft and antivirus vendor sites, which offer tools to fight it. Check if you can visit these Web pages—if not, your machine may be infected.

'Conficker' travels via networks, USB sticks; situation 'getting worse'

(NEWSER) - A Windows worm that emerged in October is “skyrocketing” worldwide, with some 8.9 million computers now infected, says an antivirus firm. The program, known as Conficker, Downadup, or Kido, can zoom through low-security networks, memory sticks, and any PC that hasn’t downloaded current security updates, the BBC reports. The virus can give hackers “complete control” of a computer, PC World adds. More»

Anonymous-linked hacker tried to extort $50K from antivirus firm

(NEWSER) - A hacker has made good on a threat to release the source code for Symantec's pcAnywhere tool after failing to extort $50,000 from the antivirus company. The release raises fears that other hackers could find security holes in the product, but Symantec says it was prepared for the move, and it has issued patches, Reuters reports. Hackers are also expected to release source code for an old version of Norton antivirus software, Symantec says. More»

Researchers call it a major vulnerability: MSNBC

(NEWSER) - Even if your computer is as secure as you can make it, you may still be offering hackers entry to your network—through your printer. Columbia University researchers warn that millions of printers belonging to consumers, businesses, and government agencies could be vulnerable to attack. Among other dangers, hackers may be able to give printers remote instructions that would eventually cause them to catch fire, use hijacked printers to retrieve Social Security numbers or other sensitive information, or even gain access to an entire network, MSNBC reports in an extensive look at the dangers. More»