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

Gaobot.MPA is a worm that spreads by copying itself, without infecting other 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 opens one or more ports to allow remote access to the computer and takes action that compromises user confidentiality; it awaits remote-control orders received through IRC.

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.

Gaobot.MPA 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.
• Via Internet, exploiting remote vulnerabilities: attacking random IP addresses, in which it tries to insert a copy of itself by exploiting one or more vulnerabilities.