Information Protection and Security

Last week, Conficker's handlers began updating already-infected PCs, and used the opportunity to also install spam bots and phony antivirus software on those systems. Conficker.e, as the new variant has been dubbed, restores the worm's ability to spread to machines not yet patched against the MS08-067 vulnerability.

A Kaspersky researcher reports that the worm began using its peer-to-peer functionality yesterday to pull down new files, including updates and the fake security program. The fake app goes with the usual scareware tactics of identifying threats on the computer (ironically true in this case) and offering to clean the PC for $49.95.
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"In just 12 hours, one bot alone sent out 42,298 spam messages." Windows PCs infected with the Conficker worm have turned into junk mail-spewing robots capable of sending billions of spam messages a day, a security company warned today.
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Conficker.C is now actively updating itself using its peer-to-peer mechanisms.

April 1 has come and gone, and the Internet has not disintegrated and no major cyber-attacks were reported. But Conficker still remains a threat. Now don't panic, this doesn't mean cyber-Armageddon could strike at any minute, it just means you need to make sure your computer is fully updated if it isn't already.

The Test:

 Get the basics about this current threat from Trend Micro.

The Conficker worm is expected to hit the Internet on April 1, but experts disagree on how extensive the damage could be. roundup 
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What is Conficker.c and what do analysts fear it may do?

The security industry is contemplating the post-Conficker apocalypse. Good thing I still have all the guns, ammo and water from my Y2K preparations. (No evidence found here at RU)