Kelvir - MSN Messenger worm 'good at foreign languages'

Security experts have just discovered a category of computer worms that attack through instant messaging programs MSN Messenger capable of sending messages in the language used on users' computers.

David Jaros, product marketing manager for security equipment firm Akonix Systems, said the Kelvir.HI worm has the ability to send messages containing dangerous links in English, Dutch, French, German, and Greek. , Italy, Portugal, Sweden, Spain and Turkey.

Kelvir worm has the ability to check the system configuration settings running Windows operating system to detect the language being used to send messages in that language.

This can be considered the first virus capable of detecting configuration settings on users' computer systems.

For example, if Kelvir infected a computer in English, it would send a message 'haha, I found your picture!'. Shortly thereafter, the message will be sent to all contacts (contacts) on the MSN Messenger user's list with a link that when a user clicks on it will have a malicious software loaded. Go back and install on the user's computer for the purpose of opening the 'back door' for hackers to break into.

Kelvir.HI is a variant of the Kelvir virus that was first discovered in February. So far, Kelvir 'family' has a total of 103 members.

The virus spread mainly through MSN Messenger instant messaging program and only affects Windows 2000, Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows Me, Windows NT, Windows Server 2003 and Windows XP operating systems.

Kelvir's 'multi-language usability' is a sign that more and more 'innovations' and more innovative ways are available for authors of viruses.