Trojan Rootkits (Rootkit.Gen) Disables AntiVirus Apps & Security Sites

A trojan rootkit variant (part of the Win32.Rootkit.Gen or Rootkit.Gen family group) continues to threaten computer users and has the ability to prevent anti-virus software from running to scan and remove parasites on your computer. Computer users who are infected with the rootkit variant state that it does not allow them to open their anti-virus program or visit websites that assist them in the removal of the infection such as symantec.com and update.microsoft.com. It is apparent that serious issues will occur for computer users who have a Rootkit type of infection on their computer.

Understanding Rootkits

A Rootkit may be composed of one program or a combination of malicious programs that are designed to take control of your computer. Basically, a rootkit will allow hackers or outside attackers have root access to an infected computer. They can virtually act as an administrator and have access to your system without your permission. A rootkit like Rootkit.Gen runs in the background and limits usage of certain programs or access to websites that could assist you in removing the rootkit infection. Other rootkits have been known to act or pretend to be proxy servers and manually spread from executable files.

Rootkits were originally legitimate programs that gave a user or administrator control to fix issues on an unresponsive computer. Nowadays, hackers have used this type of technology for malicious purposes (usually to extort money) at the expense of computer users, who often times are unaware that they've been infected with a rootkit. Just like Trojans or Rogue Anti-Spyware you have to find means of protecting yourself from rootkit infections and other malware.

Rootkit Symptoms to Watch Out For

* The anti-virus program that you currently have installed no longer runs.
You notice that you are no longer protected by your antivirus program. You may get popup alerts from Windows that say you are not protected by an antivirus program. If you normally run antivirus software and it doesn't run upon command, then this is a clear indication that a setting has been changed without your permission.
* Your computer locks up or fails to respond to common inputs.
At times you notice that your mouse is not moving or a program ceases to function or respond to commands given to it by you.
* Settings in Windows change without your permission.
When you access certain programs or perform actions on your Windows desktop, you notice that a setting has been manipulated or changed from what you originally set it as. This can be anything from your background or screen saver changing to your taskbar hiding itself.
* Disabled web browser applications.
You are not able to open Firefox or Internet Explorer to surf the web. Sometimes malicious applications block your access to the Internet by shutting down web browser applications.
* You experience excessive network traffic or your network connect becomes slow or disconnected.
You may notice web pages or network actives to be intermittent or cease to function properly at times.