Infamous "OpenSC.WS" is back

    It would seem that the infamous "Security research" forum (trojan coding forum) called OpenSC.WS is back up. The admin "reine" claims he was traveling and missed the billing email, and claims that was the reason for this extended down time. There is no word on whether the constant DDOS attacks will continue now that this forum is back up, I suspect it won't be long before they start up again.

    So what does this mean for us, security wise? It means that there will now, once again be more viruses being used in the public. While many of OpenSC's users left for other forums, there are still others who waited patiently for it's return to start selling malware again. While this won't cause an increase in extremly hazardous malware like FLAME or StuxNet, you can expect to see more RATs (Remote Administration Tools) and small bitcoin mining malware (Bitcoin is an online currency frequently used for illicit business). So I suggest you all set up those anti-virus and firewalls, and tread carefully.

Please let me know if you are interested in a particular topic for my next post

ZeroAccess: How to remove the latest version

   In my previous 2 posts I have highlighted the changes in the newer version of ZeroAccess and how to tell if you are infected, and who is at most risk. This post will cover how to get rid of this infection, and what tools to use to protect against it.

    The easiest way is to download one of many anti-virus programs, or removal tools. I always recommend ESET as they have always gotten the job done for me and my family. ESET has made a tool specifically to remove the ZeroAccess bot, one that is easy and completely free.

1. Download the tool here
2. Start the tool by double clicking it.
3. Press "Y" when it asks you if you want to restore system services
4. Once the tool has finished working, restart your computer by pressing any key.
5. You may be prompted with a security window upon restarting, click yes or allow
6. Click "Yes" on the repair window
7. Once the repair is finished, you will be prompted to restart again, do so.
8. For best results and to ensure complete removal, purchase ESET Smart Security or ESET Nod32 and run a full scan.

    As you can see, it is fairly simple to remove this virus, if you have any trouble, comments, or questions, let me know in the comments section (Don't be embarrassed, I have to approve comments, if you think it is a stupid question, just ask that I do not post the comment, and I will contact you directly.)

    The main way this bot spreads is through exploits, most of which are patched in the latest versions of the software they are designed to exploit, so make sure you apply regular updates, and don't visit shady sites. Also, I know it may be hard to refrain from pirating things like games, so I encourage you to only download "cracks" if there have been many downloads, even then, make sure to read the comments and do not download if it is reported to be infected, or not working correctly. Also remember that I do not condone pirating or any form of illegal downloads.