BackDoor PoisonIvy, often referred to simply as PoisonIvy, is a malicious application that allows hackers to remotely access a computer system and steal personal data, modify files and install more unwanted software.
It captures certain information entered or saved by the user, including keystrokes in order to obtain information for accessing online banking services, passwords and other confidential information. It can also capture screenshots of actions carried out.
The virus then sends the gathered information to a remote user by any available means, such as email or FTP.
It reduces the security level of the computer, listening on open ports in order to control the computer remotely.
These kinds of Trojan horse threats would be sent to you by someone or delivered by another programme. They could also make their way onto your computer through unwanted downloads on infected websites or could be installed with online games or other Internet-driven applications.
Protecting against, and removing, BackDoor PoisonIvy
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Most Trojan horses can be detected and removed by anti-virus software, many of which are free to download. Ensure you have a reliable anti-virus solution installed, and regularly updated, on your computer.
If you get a pop-up warning for this virus while you were visiting a website, it is likely that the malware was blocked and there’s nothing to remove.
It is worth performing a full system scan after dealing with the threat, though, to make sure your computer is unaffected.
If infection takes place, a full anti-virus scan should be able to detect and remove it. If you have trouble booting your computer in order to run the scan you may have to start up the system in safe mode or use an anti-virus USB stick.
It’s advisable to use a cleaning tool, many of which can be found online and can be used without downloading, in order to make sure no traces of PoisonIvy remain the system.
