Companies offer tips for 'Conficker' worm concerns

12:58 AM CDT on Wednesday, April 1, 2009

By STEVE STOLER / WFAA-TV

LINK: Microsoft 'patch'

Microsoft: Free PC safety scan

DALLAS - Computer experts are warning computer users that April Fool's Day could turn out to be less than funny when it comes to a serious computer virus.

The virus is called the "Conficker" worm, and it's been infecting millions of PCs. Experts said they believe the Conficker virus could take a nasty turn at midnight Tuesday.

"The worst case scenario is something completely unanticipated that would cause a lot of malicious damage to companies and networks," said Barry McPherson, a computer security expert.

So, what should one do to protect themselves?

First there is knowing how the virus targets users, which occurs when users open an unknown e-mail attachment that infects their computer. The virus hijacks the computer by harnessing its processing power. It then links it with hundreds of others to create a super computer called a "botnet."

"This is organized crime at a global level that has control of these botnets," said Chris O'Ferrell, a computer security consultant. "It is a very profitable and very powerful tool."

McPherson, senior vice president at the computer security giant McAfee, Inc., said the best case scenario is nothing happens. However, there is the possibility of the other side of the coin.

"Probably the easiest thing for the consumer is you probably won't be able to access your security vendor," McPherson said.

The Conficker worm automatically turns off various security settings built into Microsoft Windows. It blocks users from going to websites that provide anti-virus protection.

"You notice your computer acting funny," McPherson said. "You see some strange flickering on your screen."

Most people probably won't notice anything wrong with their computers, even if some command is sent by Conficker that day.

But for safety, Microsoft, McAfee and other companies have websites where users can find software "patches" to prevent damage to their machines.


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