ACMA Extend Zombie-Hunting Program

The first stages of the trial started in November 2005 with 6 ISPs- Pacific Internet, West Australian Networks, OptusNet, Uecomm, Telstra BigPond and WestNet. The service is now extended to include AustatNet, Powerup, SetNet, AOL, Riverland Internet, Access Net Australia, Chariot, OzEmail, ihug, iPrimus, Reynolds Technology, Internode Agile, AustarNEt Cable, Neighborhood Cable, Soul, Bekkers, iiNet, Primusonline and Hotkey.

In trial program, ACMA provides the list of infected net addresses to ISPs on their computer networks. Once the Internet address of an infected machine is found, the ISP that provides net access to that system is notified. The ISP then has to contact the net user and inform him/her about the cleaning of computer of malware.

If the user is unable to solve the problem and his/her computer is still a menace to other net users, the Internet service providers may take measures (under their use policy) to discontinue the service until the issue is resolved.

Senior systems engineer at anti-virus company Trend Micro, Adam Biviano said that he appreciates the government's move to extend the scheme, as zombies systems are a critical threat.

He further added that networks of zombie are a major reason for infection. The inclusion of ISPs is necessary as their networks are being exploited to launch the infection attacks.

ACMA informs that experience from trail shows that many users are not even aware of any malware infection in their PCs. These users are thankful for the help in making their machines safe and secure.

ACMA has not divulged the details of the technology it is employing to drive the trail service. Some measures, like anti-virus software and firewalls are prescribed by ACMA to keep the computers safe. But unluckily, that would not solve the issue necessarily. The extension of ACMA's zombie-control trial program will definitely reduce the infection threat.

Related article: ACMA Unleashes SpamMATTERS - the New anti-spam Button

» SPAMfighter News - 10/31/2006