USB Key Malware Blocked by Microsoft
Microsoft has issued an emergency security patch critical for PCs running any version of Windows to stop an infected USB key from installing malware on the computer.
Earlier last month, Microsoft recommended that users disable their icons for shortcuts to make their systems immune to the technique. But a late July spike in a strain of the Sality virus known to be carried through the USB/shortcut method, prompted the emergency patch eight days before Microsoft’s monthly security update.
"Sality is a highly virulent strain. It is known to infect other files (making full removal after infection challenging), copy itself to removable media, disable security, and then download other malware. It is also a very large family—one of the most prevalent families this year," wrote Microsoft's Holly Stewart in the Microsoft Security blog.
For all users who have turned on Automatic Updates, the patch should be downloaded and installed as specified. To check, open the Control Panel, select Security, and then “Check for updates.” If the security update is listed, install it. Otherwise, view your update history to verify it was installed.
You must restart your computer for updates to take effect.
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