First Trojan To Directly Target Microsoft Anti-Spyware
The Register is reporting that the first trojan to specifically affect Microsoft's Anti-Spyware program has been released. Called BankAsh-A, the trojan steals credit card and other info, turns off anti-virus programs (and disables the beta Microsoft anti-spyware software), deletes files on the computer and downloads code from the internet as well as installing more malware on the computer.
The trojan runs a key logger on infected computers, which captures all kinds of personal information. BankAsh-A is distributed via spam email. Sophos reports that users banking with Barclays, Cahoot, Halifax, HSBC, Lloyds TSB, Nationwide, NatWest, Smile and others are affected. Sophos are reporting that so far, the trojans has seen limited distribution.
Microsoft recently announced plans to purchase Sybari Software, a anti-virus company also specialising in spam and security software. Joe Wilcox of Jupiter Research notes that "Competitors and partners should carefully watch Microsoft now. Combined, the three acquisitions give Microsoft the basis on which to release security products for the consumer and business markets." Surely, a complete anti-virus package from Microsoft is only months away.
