Windows anti-spyware under Trojan attack

SEATTLE: Microsoft Corp. is investigating an attack on its new anti-spy software by a program designed to cripple it and snoop on computer users' activities, the world's largest software maker said.

The program, called "BankAsh-A Trojan", removes files from Windows AntiSpyware, suppresses warning messages and deletes the program entirely.

Microsoft said in a statement it is investigating what it called a criminal attack on its software.

Trojans are a class of malicious programs that masquerade as applications that may appear to be harmless. Once activated, usually by opening a downloaded filed, they can take over a computer, delete or steal data.

Windows AntiSpyware was introduced on a trial basis last month.

The Microsoft program, which blocks other programs that generate unwanted pop-up ads and secretly record a computer user's activities, was built on technology that Microsoft acquired when it bought Giant Company Software, Inc. in December.

Microsoft, based in Redmond, Washington, encouraged people to continue using Windows AntiSpyware and also said that any affected users should contact its support services at support.microsoft.com.

Microsoft has been working for the last three years to improve the security and reliability of its software under its Trustworthy Computing initiative, as more and more malicious programs target weaknesses in Windows and other Microsoft software.

Earlier this week, Microsoft said it would buy anti-virus software maker Sybari Software Inc. to shore up security in its Windows and e-mail software.

Also this week, Microsoft issued its monthly security bulletin, warning computer users of eight new "critical"-rated flaws in its Windows, Office and other software products that could allow hackers to sneak into personal computers and snoop on sensitive data.