Brontok.AD is a worm that spreads by copying itself, without infecting other files. It causes information loss:
different types of documents such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc; it indiscriminately deletes random files. It affects productivity, preventing tasks from being carried out: - In the affected computer:
causes system slowdowns.
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 changes the security settings of Internet Explorer, decreasing its security level; it opens one or more ports to allow remote access to the computer and takes action that compromises user confidentiality; it changes system permissions, decreasing the security level. It uses stealth techniques to avoid being detected by the user: - It uses techniques included in its code to hide itself while it is active.
- It terminates processes corresponding to several security tools, such as antivirus programs and firewalls, to prevent detection.
- It modifies system permissions in order to hide itself.
It uses several methods in order to avoid detection by antivirus companies: - It prevents scanning tools from running, such as Windows Registry Editor, FileMonitor, etc.
Brontok.AD uses the following propagation or distribution methods: - Exploiting vulnerabilities with the intervention of the user: exploiting vulnerabilities in file formats or applications. To exploit them successfully it needs the intervention of the user: opening files, viewing malicious web pages, reading emails, etc.
- Email: sending emails that include a copy of itself as an attachment. The computer is infected when the attachment is run.
|