Please note that Microsoft issued a security patch for the OS vulnerability exploited by the Conficker worm in October 2008. Users with current antivirus software who regularly install security patches for their Microsoft OS are less likely to be infected with this worm.
ITS urges all users to update their antivirus software with the latest definitions.
Visit the web page below to download the security patch from Microsoft.
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/security/Bulletin/MS08-067.mspx
ITS provides USC account holders with Symantec Endpoint Protection (antivirus software) at no charge, for their work and home computers. Visit http://software.usc.edu to download a copy. (A login is required.)
If you are unable to update your antivirus software or access security websites, it is possible that your computer has been infected with the worm.
Visit http://www.us-cert.gov/cas/alerts/SA09-088A.html for the text of the US-CERT alert.
Visit the page below on the Microsoft website for more information about the Conficker worm.
http://www.microsoft.com/protect/computer/viruses/worms/conficker.mspx
Remember the following safe computing tips:
- Never open suspicious attachments from people you don't know.
- Be cautious when clicking links in email from someone you don't know.
- Use hard-to-guess passwords that include a mix of upper and lowercase letters, digits, and special characters.
- Never email your password to anyone.
- Use caution when using other people's USB drives since some variants of the worm can spread via USB drives.