Security Alert : Adware Installed through WMA Files

Tech-Archive recommends: Repair Windows Errors & Optimize Windows Performance

From: MowGreen [MVP] (mowgreen_at_nowandzen.com)
Date: 01/03/05 

Date: Sun, 02 Jan 2005 22:31:35 -0800

http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,12245912~mode=flat

" In short, the well-known copyright management/protection firm Overpeer
has figured out how to install adware through Windows Media files. The
technique exploits features of the Windows Media DRM functionality to
launch special Internet Explorer windows that display popup ads and that
also attempt to download and install adware/spyware. This happens when
the user opens the Windows Media file for playing.

Some might be tempted to dismiss this new method for distributing adware
and spyware as a risk only for those using P2P networks. That snap
judgement would be a mistaken and misguided one, though. The P2P file
sharing angle on this story is a red herring.

The problem here involves the DRM features of Windows Media, and those
features create a new and potentially very effective means for adware
vendors to push unwanted software on unsuspecting users who have no
interest whatsoever in using P2P networks to trade unauthorized music
files."<snipped>

MowGreen [MVP]
===============
  *-343-* FDNY
Never Forgotten
===============

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