Virus Encyclopedia

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Downloader.VBS

 
Threat LevelModerate threat
DamageHigh
DistributionNot widespread
Common name:Downloader.VBS
Technical name:Trj/Downloader.VBS
Threat level:Low
Type:Trojan
Effects:   It allows to get into the affected computer. It searches for and steals passwords saved for certain Windows services. It terminates processes belonging to security tools, leaving the computer vulnerable to other malware attacks. It uses stealth techniques to avoid being detected by the user. It does not spread automatically using its own means.
Affected platforms:

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

First detected on:Nov. 28, 2008
Detection updated on:Nov. 28, 2008
StatisticsNo

Brief Description 

    

Downloader.VBS is a Trojan, which although seemingly inoffensive, can actually carry out attacks and intrusions.

 

It captures certain information entered or saved by the user, with the corresponding threat to privacy: passwords saved by certain Windows services.

 

It reduces the security level of the computer: it terminates processes belonging to security tools, such as antivirus programs and firewalls, leaving the computer defenseless against attacks from other malware.

 

It uses stealth techniques to avoid being detected by the user:

  • It deletes the original file from which it was run once it is installed on the computer.
  • It modifies system permissions in order to hide itself.

 

Downloader.VBS 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.