It makes the Internet connection slow down considerably in computers with connection via MODEM. It obtains the lists of telephone numbers stored in the computer and sends this information to its author. It does not spread by its own means.

Windows 2003/XP/2000/NT/ME/98/95

PhoneStealer.A is a Trojan that makes the Internet connection slow down in computers that connect to the Internet via MODEM as it modifies its configuration.

Additionally, it obtains the telephone numbers stored in programs such as Outlook, Yahoo or Messenger and then sends them to its author.

PhoneStealer.A does not spread automatically using its own means. It needs an attacking user's intervention in order to reach the affected computer. The means of transmission used include, among others, floppy disks, CD-ROMs, email messages with attached files, Internet downloads, FTP, IRC channels, peer-to-peer (P2P) file sharing networks, etc.

PhoneStealer.A is difficult to recognize, as it does not display any messages or warnings that indicate it has reached the computer.