Dangerous New Virus Variant

MISHAWAKA. Even as Sircam and Code Red continue to spread on unprotected computers, a new threat is emerging: a potentially dangerous variant of the Magistr.B virus.

This variant incorporates new features that make it more likely to spread than older versions.  First, it has been modified to avoid detection by older virus checkers.  Second, it now targets a variety of e-mail clients - in its hunt for e-mail addresses it looks at not only Microsoft Outlook, the common target of virus writers, but also Eudora and Netscape e-mail programs.

The payload of this virus is one of the nastiest around.  It destroys the contents of the PC's hard drive, and even corrupts the CMOS/BIOS information in Windows computers.  This renders the computer inoperative and difficult to restore to working condition.

The usual precautions will prevent infection - never opening unexpected attachments (even from someone you know - these viruses hijack your contacts' e-mail addresses!), keeping virus software and signatures up to date, and scanning e-mail at the server level.  McAfee currently rates the overall risk from the new variant as "medium," although the potential for data loss and systems damage suggests that IT managers should be on guard.

Related Links:

McAfee Magistr.B Information

Trend Micro Top Viruses

CompStar Virus Update Page - News & Top Viruses

 IT Indiana - Home

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

CompStar Technologies is a leading Indiana-based provider of networking, technology, and communications services. With offices in Mishawaka (serving South Bend, Elkhart, Warsaw, Michigan City, Fort Wayne, Niles, St. Joseph, and Benton Harbor, Michigan) and Indianapolis, CompStar provides network design / support, network security, wireless networking, business telephone systems, VoIP (voice over IP), and cctv / video surveillance systems. CompStar is the Technology Division of Direct Line Communications, headquartered in Mishawaka, Indiana.