Secure Yourself Against Conficker Worm

Windows OS users across the globe have been worried sick about the Conficker worm striking back on April 1,09.

Anti-virus and security solutions providing companies like Symantec, F-Secure, Avast! and others are however singing a relieved tune. That’s because they say they’re prepared to tackle it.

What’s this Conficker worm anyway?
The ‘C’ variant of Conficker worm, aka Downadup or Kido, infects Windows machines (XP and Vista) and disables them to get security updates or patches from Microsoft and from other vendors. According to Symantec, the creators of the worm will also start using a communications system that is more difficult for security researchers to interrupt.

(Image source: Wikimedia)

How will Conficker harm users?
While nobody knows what exactly Conficker will actually do, most likely, the worm will be used to create a botnet that will be rented out to criminals who want to send SPAM, steal IDs and direct users to online scams and phishing sites.

What can be done to protect a computer from this worm?
First of all, update your anti-virus software. Especially on April 1, make sure that it’s actually running when you start your computer. Secondly, make sure that you have the latest Windows security updates.

You should know:
1. Changing the date of your system will not help avoid this worm.
2. Keeping your computer shut on April 1 will also not help either.
3. The only way to get past this worm is by updating Windows and your anti-virus software.

Conficker History
The ‘B’ variant of the Conficker worm had created ruckus around January this year. By February, it had affected over 9 million Windows users worldwide. Perturbed by the virus, Microsoft had even announced to pay reward of $250,000 to any individual who’ll find out the culprits behind Conficker.

Last words
Before this April 1 — Don’t be a fool, download the security tool.

Some resources are listed here:
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/962007
http://vil.nai.com/vil/content/v_153464.htm
http://www.411-spyware.com/conficker-worm-removal
http://community.mcafee.com/showthread.php?t=225901

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