Trojan Pretends To Be Window 7 'Compatibility Checker'
Malware about to begin "massive spreading," researchers say
![](https://eu-images.contentstack.com/v3/assets/blt6d90778a997de1cd/bltc94608acf452fd67/655cf371ab171e040a838b2a/329050_DR23_Graphics_Website_V5_Default_Image_v1.png?width=1280&auto=webp&quality=95&format=jpg&disable=upscale)
A Trojan horse masquerading as a tool that helps users get ready for Windows 7 is on the loose and about to become widespread, a security firm said today.
According to a report by researchers at BitDefender, the new attack seeks to take advantage of users who are anxious to move over to the new Microsoft operating system, which is scheduled for general availability in October.
"This piece of software supposedly allows them to see if their system resources could support the new OS," BitDefender says. "All they have to do is open the attached .zip file.
"Instead of the promised compatibility checking tool, the zip file hides Trojan.Generic.3783603. This piece of malware contains malicious or potentially unwanted software, which it drops and installs on the system. Frequently, it installs a backdoor, which allows remote, clandestine access to the infected system. This backdoor may then be used by cybercriminals to upload and install additional malicious or potentially unwanted software on the captured system."
Early statistics indicate that a "massive spreading" of the Trojan is about to begin, BitDefender says. "Although this phenomenon has just started, it seems that it's just a matter of time before the cybercriminals control a huge number of systems," the researchers say.
Have a comment on this story? Please click "Discuss" below. If you'd like to contact Dark Reading's editors directly, send us a message.
About the Author
You May Also Like
Catch the Threat Before it Catches you: Proactive Ransomware Defense
September 5, 2024How to Evaluate Hybrid-Cloud Network Policies and Enhance Security
September 18, 2024DORA and PCI DSS 4.0: Scale Your Mainframe Security Strategy Among Evolving Regulations
September 26, 2024Harnessing the Power of Automation to Boost Enterprise Cybersecurity
October 3, 2024
[Virtual Event] The Essential Guide to Cloud Management
October 17, 2024Black Hat Europe - December 9-12 - Learn More
December 10, 2024SecTor - Canada's IT Security Conference Oct 22-24 - Learn More
October 22, 2024