If my computer is not connected to the internet, will I be affected by the Game Over Zeus virus?

Question

I have terminated my internet connection with my ISP a few months ago. Although I still have got a computer, I have not used it for a long time because I do not have internet service. Therefore, in my case, is there any possibility that my computer is already attacked by GameOver Zeus virus?

I have got no way to check because there is nothing I can do without internet service on that particular computer. I also did not update the scanning on my Windows Defender or Microsoft Essentials because I cannot connect online.

Please would you advise me on my present situation?

Many thanks!

Answer 1

Gameover Zeus (detected in October 2011) has morphed from previous Zeus malware; and also became a collaboration of other noteable 'flavors' of malware, "SpyEye" and "CryptoLocker'; plus it's associated with other spam botnets.

Advancements in cloaking techniques has made these hard to detect, and bring down.



It's difficult to say whether a system, once infected with one of these earlier incarnations, could not 'phone home' to the C&C and get updated to the latest version.

Left undetected, anything is possible.

Of note, a current effort by International Police agencies is moving to close down infected servers, and computers (the botnet)...but it's going to be a challenge (Krebs; http://krebsonsecurity.com/2014/06/operation-tovar-targets-gameover-zeus-botnet-cryptolocker-scourge/ Enter "Zeus" into his search slot to see the page after page of the complexity and history of this 'family')



The safest approach (IMHO) is to re-install the OS...preferably on a new HDD.

Answer 2

Q1: Is there any possibility that my computer is already attacked by GameOver Zeus virus?



A: It might be infected but it is not currently attacked since the GameOver Zeus malware needs an internet connection for it to send back messages to its C&C servers.



Q2: Please would you advise me on my present situation?



A: If you have a critical and very important documents or files on your computer, I would advise that you install an antivirus software with real-time protection on all your devices (Windows/Mac/Android).



Tidbits: The GameOver Zeus botnet has recently been taken down by the FBI with collaboration from different antivirus companies but it might comeback again in two (2) weeks time according to estimates if and only if the hackers decide to put up a new C&C server.

Answer 3

It's very unlikely that it would be infected with GOZeus.



That virus is spread through Emails only..

So dont open emails = never get GOZeus virus.



More info -> https://uk.news.yahoo.com/cyber-attack-hit-next-two-weeks-045602493.html#kad5Lix



Advise.. Dont open emails you dont trust.



Hope it helps :)