Autorun.XR is a virus that also has the characteristics of a worm.
Autorun.XR gets into a computer via e-mail, the Internet, floppy disks, etc, and it spreads by inserting its code in other files and programs. Its effects can range from simply annoying to destructive.
Furthermore, due to its worm characteristics, Autorun.XR also spreads by sending out copies of itself. Its main objective is to collapse computers and networks, preventing users from working with the affected computer.
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 reduces the security level of the computer:
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 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.
Autorun.XR 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. |