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

Gaobot.MSI is a worm that spreads by copying itself, without infecting other files.

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

• In the local network: it generates a large amount of network activity and consumes bandwidth.

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 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 terminates processes corresponding to several security tools, such as antivirus programs and firewalls, to prevent detection.
• It deletes the original file from which it was run once it is installed on the computer.

Gaobot.MSI 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.
• IRC: It sends a copy of itself to all users connected to the channel to which the infected user is connected.