Name :	Backdoor:W32/IRCBot.EX
Detection Names :	Backdoor.Win32.IRCBot.ex
Category:	Malware
Type:	Backdoor
Type:	Worm
Platform:	W32

A remote administration utility that bypasses normal security mechanisms to secretly control a program, computer or network.

Automatic Disinfection

Allow F-Secure Anti-Virus to disinfect the relevant files.

For more general information on disinfection, please see Removal Instructions.

Eliminating a Local Network Outbreak

If the infection is in a local network, please follow the instructions on this webpage:

Backdoor:W32/IRCBot.EX provides unauthorised access to an infected computer and also has the capability to spread to remote computers using the PnP exploit on port 445.

The backdoor's file is a PE executable file about 8 kilobytes long, packed with MEW file compressor and patched with PE_Patch. The code of backdoor is encrypted with a simple cryptoalgorithm.

IRCBot.EX was found on August 17th, 2005 and is very similar to the IRCBot.ES variant found 2 days earlier.

Propagation

The backdoor has the ability to spread to remote computers using the PnP exploit on port 445. Please see the following page for detailed information on the vulnerability: http://www.microsoft.com/technet/security/Bulletin/MS05-039.mspx

Installation

When the backdoor's file is activated on a computer, it copies its file to Windows System folder as WPA.EXE and then starts the copied file as a service named 'Windows Product Activation', an "anti-piracy technology designed to verify that software products have been legitimately licensed".

If the backdoor fails to start its service, it tries to inject its code into Explorer.exe process.

Backdoor

When active, the backdoor connects to the following server on port 18067:

Then backdoor joins an IRC channel called '#p4' using the hardcoded password and creates a bot there. A remote hacker can control a backdoor via a bot that it creates in the '#p4' channel. A hacker can do any of the following: