Sign In
Create Account
0
FBI Pulls The Plug On DNSChanger Network, Infected PCs Lose Internet Access [Updates]
July 10, 2012
By Matt Smith
The malware has kept itself in the headlines because it changes the DNS settings of infected computers. Once changed, those computers have their traffic routed through servers set up by the hackers who developed the trojan.
FBI agents have long since caught up with the hackers responsible and captured the servers used to route traffic. But this presented the FBI with a problem – it could not shut down the servers because the infected PCs would suddenly lose Internet access.
An awareness campaign was launched to let users known of the potential threat. It included a site created by the DNS Changer Working Group that could inform visitors if their computer was infected. This has reduced the number of infected computers to around 250,000. Now, however, the servers are finally down for good – so those victims who remain infected are in the dark.
If you, or a friend, have suddenly experienced an unexplained Internet outage on one of your PCs there is a decent chance that DNSChanger is responsible. To remove it, visit the DCWG fix page on a computer that still has Internet access and download one of the many malware removal tools listed.
After you’ve removed the bug, check our coverage of the best free anti-virus programs and download one to keep your computer protected.
Source: CNET, DNS Changer Working Group
Steve
Back to top
