We're gradually updating threat actor names in our reports to align with the new weather-themed taxonomy. Learn about Microsoft threat actor names
Win32/Plexus
Detected by Microsoft Defender Antivirus
Aliases: No associated aliases
Summary
Windows Defender Antivirus detects and removes this threat.
Win32/Plexus is a mass-mailing email worm that targets Microsoft Windows. The worm also spreads through Kazaa peer-to-peer network shares and to computers that have not been patched for the Windows vulnerabilities described in Microsoft Security Bulletins MS03-039 and MS04-011. Win32/Plexus opens a backdoor which allows attackers to run arbitrary code on the infected computer.
Use the following free Microsoft software to detect and remove this threat:
- Microsoft Defender Antivirus for Windows 10 and Windows 8.1, or Microsoft Security Essentials for Windows 7 and Windows Vista
- Microsoft Safety Scanner
You should also run a full scan. A full scan might find hidden malware.
Get more help
You can also visit our advanced troubleshooting page or search the Microsoft virus and malware community for more help.
If you’re using Windows XP, see our Windows XP end of support page.
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