Film scanner hides devastating computer worm

Oops: people who bought a slide scanner in Germany for Christmas last year got a nasty extra - the potentially devastating Conflicker worm.

 

Germany-based Heise Security said German retalier Tchibo sold a 35mm-negative scanner in its stores and online shop made by electronics accessory maker Hama.

 

"The affected device was exclusively sold through Tchibo and was infected with the Win32/Conficker.B virus which rose to notoriety four years ago when it caused infections around the globe. Nowadays, any current anti-virus scanner should be able to detect this strain of malware with ease," it said.

 

It said the device was sold for €60 (about P3,206), adding the retailer sent emails to customers who bought the scanner on their online store, and made an announcement on its web site about the problem.

 

Though Heise said Conficker could no longer do much damage on patched and updated Windows systems, it said it can still spread and damage unprotected systems.

 

Heise said Tchibo is now offering affected customers refunds for the devices but also says that they can be safely used after the virus has been removed with an updated anti-virus app.

 

A separate article on the HotForSecurity blog said Conficker is still making rounds in Germany.

 

It cited a Bitdefender survey in the second half of 2012 showing it as the fourth most common threat in the DACH region.

 

"The virus blocks access to websites of antivirus companies and support forums, and prevents the user from installing certain software applications. The virus is then used to plant rogue security solutions on the victim’s PCs in an attempt to extort the user," it said. — TJD, GMA News