From wikepidea
Conficker, also known as Downup, Downadup and Kido, is a computer worm targeting the Microsoft Windows operating system that was first detected in November 2008.[1] It uses flaws in Windows software to co-opt machines and link them into a virtual computer that can be commanded remotely by its authors. Conficker has more than seven million computers now under its control—government, business and home computers in more than 200 countries, according to the New York Times.[2] The worm uses a combination of advanced malware techniques which has made it difficult to counter, and has since spread rapidly into what is now believed to be the largest computer worm infection since the 2003 SQL Slammer.[3]
As of 13 February 2009, Microsoft is offering a $USD250,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the individuals behind the creation and/or distribution of Conficker.[41] Working group members report that they had expected to locate the authors, who are probably based in the Ukraine, in early 2009, but for confidential reasons the investigation is ongoing.
