Despite advances in computer security and ever-improving antivirus software, malware and viruses are still a very present threat. You don’t need to study every virus to keep yourself and your computer safe. But learning more about the most common and easily transmitted malware can help to keep your devices secure.
What Is the Bondat Virus?
Bondat is a type of virus called a worm. The virus was first identified in 2013 and consistently appeared in malware detection lists. Variations of Bondat continue to cause problems for Windows users up to the present day.
Once it infects your computer, Bondat can collect information about the system that can include the OS build, GUID, and device name. That information is then sent to a remote server. Aside from data gathering, it can also delete certain files which may prevent your computer from working as expected.
The virus will then look for ways to spread itself, such as inside certain file types on removable drives connected to your computer. If it finds a suitable file, it will replicate itself and infect that file. If the USB drive is inserted into another computer, the virus spreads.
Worms are a large and diverse group of computer viruses, including infamous examples like the Morris, ILOVEYOU, and WannaCry worms. Worms are so-called because they can replicate themselves without any human interaction. But although the infection and replication method is similar for all worms, their effects can vary quite a lot.
Worms, including Bondat, can be used to deliver additional malware, including ransomware. They can also be made to change security settings, which could make your computer susceptible to further virus infections.
How Bondat Is Transmitted
Bondat is most commonly transmitted through Java installers and removable USB drives. It can also arrive through software installers that use a fake Nullsoft Scriptable Install System (NSIS).
Because it has been around for a long time, Bondat and its variants are likely to be picked up by good antivirus software. As long as your AV software is up-to-date. Some antivirus software can be set to automatically scan USB drives when they are connected. This feature may be disabled or unavailable, so manually scanning removable drives is a good habit to develop.
It’s also be a good idea to disable the Windows AutoPlay feature for removable USB drives. If a removable drive is run automatically, your computer could be infected before the drive can be scanned.
How to Remove Bondat From Windows
The Bondat worm can sometimes use clever methods to hide and prevent detection by antivirus software scans. Here’s how to ensure you can find and remove this malware from your Windows PC.
Firstly, check that your antivirus software is up-to-date and using the most recent virus definitions. If your AV software is not set to automatically stay updated, consider enabling the auto-update feature.
Perform a full scan of your system. A quick scan may find Bondat, but it is more likely to be found during a full or offline scan. Follow any instructions to quarantine or remove the virus if it is discovered by the AV software.
Removable drives, including USB flash drives, may not be included in a full scan. Fortunately, you can scan a connected removable drive in Microsoft Defender. Third-party antivirus software should have a similar option to scan removable drives.
Understanding and Dealing With the Bondat Worm
Computer worms vary greatly in damage potential, prevalence, and how difficult they are to remove. There are several variations of Bondat, but none of them should be allowed to take up residence on your Windows PC. Learning more about how it is transmitted, how it works, and how to remove it is a good step toward keeping your computer secure.