Microsoft investigates Trojan attacks
14 February 2005
Microsoft is investigating an attack on its new anti-spyware system.
According to a company spokesman, a malicious program, known as Bankash-A, Trojan tries to turn off or delete Microsoft's spyware removal tool and suppress warning messages.
The Microsoft AntiSpyware service is currently being offered in test form and around six million people are believed to have downloaded it so far.
The new security technology aims to protect Windows users from spyware and other unwanted software.
Experts believe the Trojan may also steal online banking passwords or other personal information by tracking users' keystrokes. BankAsh-A is distributed via spam and users banking with companies including Barclays, Cahoot, Halifax, HSBC, Lloyds TSB, Nationwide, NatWest and Smile can be affected.
The malicious virus runs when web users are tricked into opening an email attachment. Sophos reports that the Trojan tries to disable Microsoft AntiSpyware, attempts to stop warning messages that would be displayed by the AntiSpyware software and deletes all files within the program's folder.
The software giant stressed that it has not seen any evidence the program is widespread, but recommended that users who believe they might be infected use other anti-virus software to try to remove it.
Microsoft commented: "Microsoft will continue to work with law enforcement and the industry to help protect customers from these types of threat. We also encourage users to use extreme caution when opening unsolicited files from known and unknown sources. Microsoft continues to recommend customers to evaluate the Microsoft AntiSpyware beta."
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