Spamta.DE 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:
email addresses. It affects productivity, preventing tasks from being carried out: - In the affected computer:
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.
- On remote sites: it mass mails junk mail (spam).
It reduces the security level of the computer:
it changes the security settings of Internet Explorer, decreasing its security level. Spamta.DE prevents access from programs to websites of several companies related with security tools (antivirus programs, firewalls, etc.). 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 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.
It uses several methods in order to avoid detection by antivirus companies: - It terminates its own execution if it detects that it is being executed in a virtual machine environment, such as VMWare or VirtualPC.
- It terminates its own execution if it detects that a memory dump program is running, such as Procdump.
- It terminates its own execution if it detects that a debugging program is active.
Spamta.DE 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. |