Zeus Virus or Zeus Trojan malware (also called Zbot) is a form of malicious software that targets computers running Microsoft Windows, although some versions have been created for other devices and operating systems. It is most commonly used for trying to steal financial data.
It was first detected in 2007 and has infected millions of computers across the world.
The creator of Zeus malware published source code in 2011, which made it possible for many other criminals to create their own versions.
How Zeus Works
Step1. It creates a botnet – this is a network of infected computers that are secretly controlled by a Zeus command server.
Step 2. The controlled computers then send information to the command server which can collate that for the criminals or can carry out various types of attacks on those computers.
Step 3. Zeus can also steal banking credentials from the machines it infects, by means of keylogging and other methods.
Zeus infects computers typically be means of
- Spam emails
- Social media campaigns
- Drive-by website downloads
How to Protect Against Zeus Malware
The means of protection are basically the same as against malware generally, including:
- Up to date anti-virus and anti-malware
- Regular backups of all important information and data
- Use of strong passwords
- All software updated as specified by the supplier
- Consider the use of two factor authentication where appropriate
If you have any experiences with these scams do let me know, by email.
