Everyone is in full Chicken Little mode these days with April 1 just around the corner and the Conflicker virus poised to bring down civilization.  Not since Y2K have I seen so much panic about a computer related issue.  So, to help everyone out, I thought that I would let you know how you can protect yourself from Conflicker.

  1. Install the Microsoft patch - There has been a patch available for this issue out since October ‘08.  Make sure the patch is installed on your system.
  2. Update your antivirus software - make sure that you have the latest version of your antivirus software and that the latest virus signatures are installed.  If you do not have antivirus on your computer, may I suggest Avast?
  3. Remove the worm from your system - F-Secure has a free tool that will remove it from your computer to make sure you are not a part of the robot army!  Or you can use the Microsoft version of the tool.
  4. Block the worm - I have created a HOSTS file update that can be added to the end of your HOSTS file to block the majority of the websites that the worm is attempting to connect to. (Thanks to F-secure for the original file that I modified).  This can also be done from your DNS server if your are running a corporate network.

More Information

You can get more information about this worm at the following websites:

P.S. If you are interested in doing a bit of manhunting, Microsoft is apparently offering a reward of $250,000 to catch this virus maker!

P.P.S. How many Linux and Mac users are stressed about this?  That’s what I thought!

Similar Posts:

If you found this post useful, why don't you buy me a cup of coffee to show your gratitude?

Trackback link - http://www.dailycupoftech.com/2009/03/31/howto-stop-conflicker-in-its-tracks-immediately/trackback/
Tim Fehlman