Brontok.BT 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:
. It sends the gathered information to a remote user by any available means: email, FTP, etc. It affects productivity, preventing tasks from being carried out: - In the affected computer:
it displays pop-up windows; causes system slowdowns; it converts the computer into a platform for taking malicious action surreptitiously: spam sending, launch of Denial of Service attacks, malware distribution, etc.
- In the local network:
it generates a large amount of network activity and consumes bandwidth.
It reduces the security level of the computer:
it changes the security settings of Internet Explorer, decreasing its security level; it notifies the attacker that the computer has been compromised and is ready to be used maliciously; it opens one or more ports to allow remote access to the computer and takes action that compromises user confidentiality; it listens on open ports in order to control the computer remotely; it awaits remote-control orders received through
other channels; it changes system permissions, decreasing the security level. 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 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.BT 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.
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