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Updated variant of the Downadup worm identified in the wild

Bitdefender researchers in the Antimalware Labs have identified a new variant of the Downadup/Conficker worm, able to circumvent detection and disinfection using the removal tools created for its previous versions.

In addition to blocking access to any website of antivirus vendors, as well as third-parties offering online scanning services or removal tools, the malicious binary has been updated to refuse users access to http://bdtools.net, BitDefender’s online repository for distributing disinfection and removal tools.

The updated disinfection tools are now available online at www.disinfecttools.com, a domain that is not currently blacklisted on the compromised machines.

"Since the new variant blocks bdtools.net the new recommended domain name is www.disinfecttools.com ( from our preliminary analysis this is not blocked by the malware ),” said Viorel Canja, head of the BitDefender Labs.

All the BitDefender 2009 products detect the worm as Win32.Worm.Downadup.Gen and stop its execution before it is able to perform changes on the system. In order to stay safe while surfing the Web, BitDefender recommends that you install a complete and up-to-date anti-malware software solution.

About BitDefender:

BitDefender is the creator of one of the industry's fastest and most effective lines of internationally certified security software. Since its inception in 2001, BitDefender has continued to raise the bar and set new standards in proactive threat prevention. Every day, BitDefender protects tens of millions of home and corporate users across the globe - giving them the peace of mind of knowing that their digital experiences will be secure. BitDefender solutions are distributed by a global network of value-added distribution and reseller partners in more than 100 countries worldwide. More information about BitDefender and its products are available at the company’s security solutions press room. Additionally, BitDefender’s www.malwarecity.com provides background and the latest updates on security threats helping users stay informed in the everyday battle against malware.

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