Factory PC hackers plot foiled by Microsoft forensic investigation

Category: Computer Forensics

21 September, 2012

Hackers have been plotting to load viruses onto PCs, according to Microsoft.

Laptops and PCs were targeted by the criminals, in a plot that was foiled by Microsoft experts conducting computer forensic investigation of the hardware.

Microsoft investigator Richard Domingues Boscovich explained: "We found malware capable of remotely turning on an infected computer's microphone and video camera, potentially giving a cybercriminal eyes and ears into a victim's home or business."

This was followed by the US District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia granting permission for Microsoft's Digital Crimes Unit to disrupt more than 500 strains of malware.

The software provider will now target the network of hijacked PCs in a bid to disrupt the criminals' plans.

Microsoft made the discovery when it bought a collection of PCs, desktops and laptops from across China.

One of the viruses discovered was Nitol, software used to steal personal information and bank details.

Computer Forensics– Kroll Ontrack has a comprehensive range of computer forensics services to help organisations, and key individuals within those organisations, make informed decisions and mitigate potential electronic evidence risks.