Rootkit:W32/Agent.EA

Classification

Category :

Malware

Type :

Rootkit

Aliases :

Rootkit:W32/Agent.EA, Rootkit.Win32.Agent.ea

Summary

Rootkit:W32/Agent.EA is a kernel-mode rootkit program that is capable of hiding its presence and activity from the user. While active, the rootkit uses the infected computer to sends spam messages.

Removal

Based on the settings of your F-Secure security product, it will either move the file to the quarantine where it cannot spread or cause harm, or remove it.

A False Positive is when a file is incorrectly detected as harmful, usually because its code or behavior resembles known harmful programs. A False Positive will usually be fixed in a subsequent database update without any action needed on your part. If you wish, you may also:

  • Check for the latest database updates

    First check if your F-Secure security program is using the latest updates, then try scanning the file again.

  • Submit a sample

    After checking, if you still believe the file is incorrectly detected, you can submit a sample of it for re-analysis.

    Note: If the file was moved to quarantine, you need to collect the file from quarantine before you can submit it.

  • Exclude a file from further scanning

    If you are certain that the file is safe and want to continue using it, you can exclude it from further scanning by the F-Secure security product.

    Note: You need administrative rights to change the settings.

Technical Details

Installation

Agent.EA arrives as a dropper that installs the main driver of the trojan and deletes itself. Upon execution, it creates the following file:

  • %System%\windbg48.sys

It installs the driver file as service by creating the following registry key:

  • HKLM\System\CurrentControlSet\Services\windbg48

The dropper deletes itself with the following batch file:

  • %Temp%\_uninsep.bat

Activity

When the driver file is activated, it might connect to one of the following remote sites in an attempt to retrieve spam messages:

  • www.konskyvolos.com
  • www.swinmaster.com

The driver also hides itself, its registry keys, and network traffic using rootkit techniques. The spamming routine is also implemented entirely in the kernel-mode component (windbg48.sys).