Rootkit in Sony MicroVault software

dafloppyone · 28 Aug 2007 at 00:57

Sony is the face of a new malware threat that deals with fingerprint-authenticating USB drives. According to a report from F-Secure, Sony's MicroVault USM-F fingerprint reading software comes with an infected USB stick. The software reportedly installs a hidden file on the user's computer and is invisible from certain antivirus scanners. It's a mirror case of Sony's huge debacle with Sony BMG Music CDs that prompted users to install malware when the CD was played back on a PC. Unlike the Sony BMG case, however, it is believed that Sony did not have malintent with the MicroVault software. F-Secure says the rootkit placement is likely just a way to make the software more secure. The security news site also noted that Sony's MicroVault software available from Sony.net also contains the same problem. According to F-Secure, the affected MicroVault software is an older product and has been essentially phased out.

Berserker · 28 Aug 2007 at 01:02

Not again.

To be fair, Sony BMG didn't have malintent with the CD copy protection rootkit either, but the problem with even well-behaved rootkits is that malware can assimilate them for their nefarious ends, and that, as I'm sure is the case this time, was the undoing of their plans.

helmutcheese · 28 Aug 2007 at 01:32

I posted this but in section where we spoke of rootkit in games lol.

mattyrigby00 · 28 Aug 2007 at 01:47

i doubt sony would want to install malicious software onto peoples computers, the "rootkit" is probably there for security reasons.

helmutcheese · 28 Aug 2007 at 02:47

Yes they do, MS and Lavasoft both kicked their ASS last time (updated Spyware Apps to remove Sonys Rootkit), then they had to recal all audio CD and got fined.