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Virut

Posted: December 29, 2023
from Cybersecurity Glossary
Aliases:
Win32/Virut, Win32.Virtob, Win32.Virut, PE_VIRUT, Virus:W32/Virut, Virus.Win32.Virut
Aliases:
Platform:
Windows
Variants:
W32/Virut.AI!Generic, Win32.Virtob.Gen, Win32/Virut.NBP, Virus:Win32/Virut.BN, , Virut.Gen, W32/Virut.Gen, W32/Virut.AJ, W32/Virut.rem.E, PE_VIRUT.GEN, Virus:Win32/Virut.E, Win32/Virut.D, Virus.Win32.Virut.n, W32/Virut.L, Win32/Virut.Y, Win32.Virtob.3.Gen, Virus.Win32.Virut.f, W32/Virutas.gen, Win32.Virut.aw, W32/Vetor-A, Virus.Win32.Virut.b, PE_VIRUT.WY-1
Damage:
Malware Distribution, File Corruption And Loss, Stolen Keystrokes, System Performance Issues, Network Connectivity Problems, Unauthorized Access, Data Theft
Risk Level:
High

Virut is an example of polymorphic virus, that corresponds to its classic definition. Its primary purpose is to assist malicious actors in expanding their botnet—a network of compromised computers used for large-scale cyberattacks. Upon infiltrating a system, the virus connects to predefined IRC channels and remains dormant until receiving instructions from a hacker. To avoid anti-malware detection, Virut can change its code.

Possible symptoms

  • Increased network traffic, particularly on IRC channels
  • System slowdowns and performance issues
  • Unusual file corruption or loss
  • Unexpected network connectivity problems
  • Stolen keystrokes and sensitive data
  • Unauthorized access to system resources

Sources of the infection

  • Infected files received through malicious email attachments
  • Drive-by downloads from compromised websites
  • Transmission through infected removable media (USB drives, external hard drives)
  • Exploitation of software vulnerabilities and unpatched systems
  • Compromised software installers or updates
  • Peer-to-peer file sharing of infected files
  • Social engineering attacks, tricking users into executing malicious code

Overview

Virut, also known by various aliases such as Win32/Virut and PE_VIRUT, is a polymorphic file infector and a botnet targeting Windows devices. This virus possesses a unique ability to alter its code, making it highly elusive and challenging to detect. Its primary objective is to facilitate the expansion of a botnet—a network of compromised computers leveraged for large-scale cyberattacks.

Upon infiltrating a system, Virut establishes connections to predefined IRC channels, remaining dormant until receiving instructions from a malicious actor. This unauthorized access to compromised devices raises serious concerns about the potential damage Virut can inflict.

The virus exhibits symptoms such as increased network traffic, system slowdowns, file corruption, and unexpected connectivity problems. It is also capable of stealing keystrokes and sensitive data, providing unauthorized access to system resources.

Virut spreads through various means, including infected email attachments, drive-by downloads from compromised websites, transmission via infected removable media, exploitation of software vulnerabilities, compromised software installers, peer-to-peer file sharing, and social engineering attacks.

If you suspect your system is infected with Virut, immediate action is crucial. Conduct a thorough malware scan using Gridinsoft Anti-Malware to detect and remove the virus. Additionally, isolate the infected system from the network to prevent further spread. Consider restoring affected files from backups and consult with a cybersecurity professional for a detailed analysis and remediation plan.

To prevent Virut infections, implement a robust cybersecurity strategy. Keep your operating system and antivirus software up-to-date with the latest security patches, regularly back up data in a secure offline location, exercise caution with downloads and email attachments, use a firewall to monitor network traffic, and deploy intrusion detection and prevention systems to detect and block malicious activities.

🤔 What to do?

If you suspect your system is infected with Virut, it's crucial to take immediate action. Perform a thorough malware scan using Gridinsoft Anti-Malware to detect and remove the virus. Additionally, isolate the infected system from the network to prevent further spread.

Consider restoring affected files from backups, as Virut may cause file corruption. Consult with a cybersecurity professional for a more detailed analysis and remediation plan.

🛡️ Prevention

Implement a robust cybersecurity strategy to prevent Virut infections:

  • Keep your operating system and antivirus software up-to-date with the latest security patches.
  • Regularly backup your data and store it in a secure, offline location.
  • Avoid downloading files from untrusted sources and be cautious with email attachments.
  • Use a firewall to monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic.
  • Employ intrusion detection and prevention systems to detect and block malicious activities.

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