FBI hot on the hacker trail

BANGALORE: The FBI today announced that it is working to identify the person or persons responsible for creating and spreading the so-called "Sobig" virus and "W32/Blaster" worm, and has appealed to computer users to take steps to protect themselves.

Director Mueller said, "Protecting the nation’s cyber infrastructure is a top priority for the FBI, and we are working with the Department of Homeland Security and with state and local law enforcement on our Cyber Task Forces to track down the perpetrators of Sobig and the recent W32/Blaster worm. We employ the latest technology and code analysis to direct us to potential sources, and I am confident that we will find the culprits."

Jana Monroe, Assistant Director of the FBI’s Cyber Division said, "We are constantly facing new malicious computer codes including worms, viruses, Trojan Horses, and their variants. Unfortunately, such exposure has become a part of being in cyberspace, but there are steps that individuals and businesses can take to protect themselves."

The FBI is tracking adult content newsgroups after a person, who is suspected to have been the virus writer himself, posted the content to these newsgroups. Sobig is expected to strike again, since it is suspected that it is much more than virus. It is expected to be a money making vehicle, since it allows PCs to be exploited and turned into spam-sending machines.

To protect against Sobig, W32/Blaster, and other worms and viruses, all computer users who connect to the Internet, including home users, and all computer systems administrators must remain vigilant by updating their anti-virus software on a regular basis. Patches are available for Sobig and Blaster, but those who have not downloaded a patch remain vulnerable. Computer users should also exercise caution in opening any e-mails or attachments from unknown persons or companies.

Users with a computer already affected by Sobig, W32/Blaster, or other malicious code, should contact his or her Internet Service Provider or computer manufacturer for assistance.






Jana Monroe said, "Anyone with information about the origins or Sobig, W32/Blaster, or other malicious code should contact their local FBI office."