What's New: Worm Hits AOL Instant Messenger Service

A new worm has cropped up that spreads over AOL's Instant Messenger chat network. The worm spreads by instant messages and chat room messages, prompting users to click a link that downloads a worm that in turn downloads a "rootkit" - a program that allows others to gain control of a computer. In turn the programs attempt to disable antivirus software, change the home page of the user's web browser, and download several pests and adware programs.

Just like with e-mail, ITS advises users to only download files they are expecting. Limiting oneself to files from a "known" source is not good enough, since e-mail addresses are very easy to fake.

Tuesday, Nov 1, 2005 01:29 pm CST

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