Avira protects from Zimuse worm

The worm Zimuse is overwriting the master boot record from the hard disk so that the system won’t start anymore

Tettnang, 26 January 2010 – Cybercriminals spread the malware “Zimuse” via compromised websites, for example as alleged “IQ-Test” programs. It deletes important sections of the hard disk so that the operating system cannot start.

By overwriting the master boot record the operating system is not bootable anymore. A recovery with a bootable Windows installation CD is possible though.

The malware is not just being spread via infected websites, but also trying to spread via the autorun mechanism for USB drives.

Antimalware solutions from Avira detect the worm as “Worm/Zimuse.A” with the VDF update 7.10.3.65 of Monday this week. Users of Avira Security Solutions thus are protected from this threat.

Besides the basic protection of the free Avira AntiVir Personal, Avira offers a better protection with Avira AntiVir Premium. Its WebGuard filters malware even before it reaches the web browser, while the MailGuard cleans emails from viruses. It is available for $36.99. Even more protection is available with Avira Premium Security Suite. The package adds a firewall to the capabilities of Avira AntiVir Premium which helps against network attacks, a web filter to protect the children from unsuitable content, AntiSpam and back-up. It is available for $59.99.

About Avira

Avira wants its customers to ‘live free’ from spyware, phishing, viruses and other internet-based threats.
The company was founded 25 years ago on Tjark Auerbach's promise to "make software that does good things for my friends and family." More than 100 million consumers and small businesses now depend upon Avira’s security expertise and award-winning antivirus software, making the company the number-two market share leader globally. Avira provides IT-security protection to computers, smartphones, servers and networks, delivered as both software and cloud-based services.

In addition to protecting the online world, Avira's CEO promotes well-being in the offline world through the Auerbach Foundation, which supports charitable and social projects. The philosophy of the foundation is to help people to help themselves.

For more information, please visit www.avira.com or join the community at www.facebook.com/avira.