K7 Computing creates Downadup neutraliser

Security software firm K7 Computing has created a solution to the internet worm ‘Downadup’ that has already infected millions of computers around the world.

Downadup, also known as Conficker and Kido, exploits the Microsoft Windows Server Service.

With an estimated 15 million PCs infected by the virus, security experts fear that the worm could effectively create a massive ‘botnet’ network that hackers could exploit to steal personal and sensitive data.

Cyber criminals could use the virus to take control of all infected PCs, experts warned.

The virus constantly updates itself from a variety of sources and servers, making it extremely difficult for antivirus software to root out.

“The worm authors are preparing to carry out a large-scale attack in the near future using the infected machines,” security expert Dominic Hoskins told the Register yesterday.

With the new solution in place, K7 Antivirus users are now protected from infection by Downadup, although previously infected users may have to clean up their computers to neutralise the security threat.

Windows users should patch their operating system with Patch MS08-067, K7 security experts advised, and download the Downadup removal tool from the K7 website.

”This worm is a salutary reminder to all users not to be complacent about patching operating systems and to use and keep their anti-virus products updated,” said Andrew Lee, Chief Technology Officer at K7 Computing.