FBI
Encourages Computer Users To Protect Themselves
From “Sobig” and “Blaster”
Computer Viruses
Washington, DC – The FBI today
announced that it is working to identify the person
or persons responsible for creating and spreading
the so-called “Sobig” virus and “W32/Blaster”
worm, and encouraged computer users to take steps
to protect themselves.
Director Mueller said, “Protecting
the nation’s cyber infrastructure is a top
priority for the FBI, and we are working with the
Department of Homeland Security and with state and
local law enforcement on our Cyber Task Forces to
track down the perpetrators of Sobig and the recent
W32/Blaster worm. We employ the latest technology
and code analysis to direct us to potential sources,
and I am confident that we will find the culprits.”
Jana Monroe, Assistant Director of
the FBI’s Cyber Division said, “We are
constantly facing new malicious computer codes including
worms, viruses, Trojan Horses, and their variants.
Unfortunately, such exposure has become a part of
being in cyberspace, but there are steps that individuals
and businesses can take to protect themselves.”
To protect against Sobig, W32/Blaster,
and other worms and viruses, all computer users
who connect to the Internet, including home users,
and all computer systems administrators must remain
vigilant by updating their anti-virus software on
a regular basis. Patches are available for Sobig
and Blaster, but those who have not downloaded a
patch remain vulnerable. Computer users should also
exercise caution in opening any e-mails or attachments
from unknown persons or companies.
Users with a computer already affected
by Sobig, W32/Blaster, or other malicious code,
should contact his or her Internet Service Provider
or computer manufacturer for assistance.
Jana Monroe said, “Anyone with information
about the origins or Sobig, W32/Blaster, or other
malicious code should contact their local FBI office.”
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