The Hindu : Front Page : New malware could ‘take root’ in your PC

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Sunday, Aug 05, 2007
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New malware could ‘take root’ in your PC

Special Correspondent

BANGALORE: There’s yet another malicious code out there, trying to enslave your personal computer. It’s called Rootkit and it can extend its roots deep into your system and draw sustenance from your files and registries. A root kit is defined as a set of tools used by an intruder after cracking your computer system. They help the attacker maintain access to your system and use it for malicious purposes. Rootkits can harness your computer to attack other systems with routines that log every keystroke and attempt to snatch private information like passwords.

Free download

Last week, Net Security specialist McAfee placed for free download, a Rootkit Detective that can sniff out such hostile codes that might have penetrated your PC’s defences. Tell-tale signs are a tangible slowing of your machine or the glowing of the hard disk activity lamp, when you are not doing any work. The 1.4 MB software can be downloaded at: http://vil.nai.com/vil/stinger/rkstinger.aspx.

Once installed, the detective does a quick survey of your hard disk and furnishes a report of all suspected Rootkits in your system. You can then delete them. However, early users have warned that this is not one of those ‘made for dummies’ applications: It is safer to send the list to McAfee, using the built-in routine, so that they can determine if the files are indeed malware — otherwise one might end up deleting essential files.

In another recent development, the global Web services company AOL has offered email users of its parent site, a free download of a suite of Net security tools which includes a special edition of the well-known McAfee’s VirusScan Plus anti virus software. Also included, are special AOL Parental Controls; a Computer Check-up utility and protection against *phishing* — tricking users into parting with sensitive information — and *spam* — unsolicited junk mail.

The free downloads bundled under the name “Security Central”, are available at: www.safety.aol.com

This is not yet linked to the India site of AOL, but there is nothing to prevent Indian users from applying for an email account from the parent site and availing of the Net Security freebies.

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