Remove that Social Networking Malware for Free

An update to Microsoft’s Malware Protection Center’s Threat Research and Response Blog by Scott Molenkamp the details social networking malware being addressed by Microsoft in their March update to their free Malicious Software Removal Tool.

This is an update regarding the US-CERT alerting us to the Koobface malware, as posted in this blog on March 4th, 2009. The Microsoft Malware Protection Center has noted that the following websites appear to be the focus of this attack:

• bebo.com
• facebook.com
• friendster.com
• fubar.com
• hi5.com
• myspace.com
• myyearbook.com
• netlog.com
• tagged.com

According to Microsoft’s details on the Malicious Software Removal Tool, “The Microsoft Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool checks computers running Windows Vista, Windows XP, Windows 2000, and Windows Server 2003 for infections by specific, prevalent malicious software—including Blaster, Sasser, and Mydoom—and helps remove any infection found. When the detection and removal process is complete, the tool displays a report describing the outcome, including which, if any, malicious software was detected and removed…

Because computers can appear to function normally when infected, Microsoft advises you to run this tool even if your computer seems to be fine. You should also use up-to-date antivirus software to help protect your computer from other malicious software. To download the latest version of this tool, please visit the Microsoft Download Center.”