What Is a Trojan Downloader?
Though not necessarily a virus, a Trojan horse is a type of file that seems to do one thing but actually serves as a way for unauthorized access to gain entry into another computer. Once access is gained, the unwanted intruder can access files, watch the screen and even control the computer. A Trojan downloader accesses a file from a remote computer and then installs it on your computer.
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Function
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Usually a Trojan will appear as a normal program that the unsuspecting user downloads. Once it is run on the system, the designer then has access to that machine.
How It Works
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Once running, the Trojan then uploads hidden programs, such as scripts and commands, onto the computer.
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Deletion
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All Trojan downloaders are different, so there is no one method to get rid of them. Clearing out temporary Internet files and running a virus scanner is good way to remove most, but not all, of them.
Threat Assessment
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According to Symantec, the threat of a Trojan downloader is low and the containment and removal is easy (see link in Resources).
Recommendations
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Keeping your computer behind a firewall.
Change passwords often.
Do not download programs from unknown sources.
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Resources
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Comments
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Deleting Trojan Downloader Virus files is a very time intensive project but will it accomplish what the Anti-Virus application promo and installation ads promise. Seems like more risk than having a few Trojans floating. Still, it's the access from an unknown source that makes me do the installation. But none of these programs are free regardless what the ads say.
