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Downadup virus exposes millions of computers to hijack

LONDON, England – A new virus that allows hackers to steal personal and financial data has spread to more than 8 million computers which is now believed to be one of the most serious infections ever.

  • Ani Dave Kukreja
  • Updated: Thu 2 Apr 2015, 8:56 AM

Analysts suggest that a single pc can expose the entire network to the worm.

The Downadup or Conficker virus exploits a bug in Microsoft Windows to infect mainly corporate networks, where -- although it has yet to cause any harm -- it potentially exposes infected PCs to hijack.

It is also said that its unique 'phone home' design, linking back to its point of origin, means it can receive further orders to cause havoc.

Large infections have been reported in Europe, the United States and in Asia. It is a Windows worm and almost all the cases are corporate networks. There are very few reports of independent home computers affected.


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