You may have heard a rumor going
around that FBI is going to shut down the Internet on July 9.
While that is probably not true for
most people, the Internet may go dark for some people because
the FBI will turn off a certain server on that date.
Maybe I better explain from the
beginning.
In 2007, a sophisticated virus
called DNSChanger was released and quickly infected millions of computers. The
malware would reroute your requests to view a webpage to hacker-created
websites, where cyber-criminals made at least $14 million in showing online
advertisements. (Who says advertizing doesn't pay?) DNSChanger also
prevents infected computers from updating or using anti-virus software, leaving
them vulnerable to even more malicious software.
Forward to November 2011: The FBI
arrested six Estonian nationals (yes, I had to look up Estonia too) and seized the servers
where infected users were being redirected. Because of the number of users who
were unknowingly being directed through these servers, a court order instructed
the FBI put up surrogate servers in place of the malicious ones so as not to
disrupt the Internet service for millions.
That court order runs out on July 9.
When the servers come down, infected computers will no longer find the
Internet.
So, how can you know if you are
infected with DNSChanger?
Visit this FBI website: https://forms.fbi.gov/check-to-see-if-your-computer-is-using-rogue-DNS.
Click one of the links at the bottom of the page (appropriate to the language
you speak). You'll know instantly.
If you are infected, how can you fix
it?
Unfortunately, the program is a
rootkit type of virus, which means it buries itself deep into the system,
requiring intensive work to get rid of it. The safest course is to back up your
important data, reformat your hard drive(s), and reinstall your operating
system (easier said than done).
If you want to attempt removal on
your own, several antivirus companies have released free removal utilities. One
example includes Kapersky Labs free rootkit removal tool.
Good luck, and may the Internet stay
on for you!
Comments are always
welcome - however, please understand that I cannot provide technical support
for your situation. If you run into trouble, seek out professional assistance
(that is, invite the neighborhood nerd over and offer him a doughnut).
