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Trojan-PWS:W32/Trojan-PWS

First posted on 23 April 2010.
Source: SecurityHome

Aliases :

There are no other names known for Trojan-PWS:W32/Trojan-PWS.

Explanation :

This type of trojan steals passwords and other sensitive information. It may also secretly install other malicious programs.

Additional DetailsA Trojan-PWS is very similar to a Trojan-Spy, but is geared mainly towards stealing account log-in details, including passwords (the PWS stands for password stealer). In addition, some Trojan-PWSs may also include spying and data-stealing routines.

To perform its password-stealing routine, a Trojan-PWS will usually drop a keylogging component. Such components stays active in Windows memory and starts keylogging (recording keystrokes) when a user is asked to input a log-in ID and a password. Stolen log-ins and passwords can allow an attacker to read a user's e-mail on public and corporate mail servers, as well as giving access to more sensitive material, such as online banking accounts.

Note

As of March 2010, the former naming convention 'Trojan-PSW' has been updated to 'Trojan-PWS' to make identification easier for users and to ensure naming practices are in line with current industry standards.

Last update 23 April 2010

 

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