Dialer.ConnectParty

SUMMARY

Behavior

Dialer.ConnectParty is a dialer program that can be used to access various Web sites by dialing a high-cost phone number using the modem. The sites that can be accessed are mostly pornographic.

Symptoms

• The files on the system are detected as Dialer.ConnectParty.
• There are one or more pornographic file icons on the desktop. The icon itself may be a black icon with red lips.

Transmission

The most common installation method for this dialer program is through various Web sites, mainly pornographic in nature. It has also been reported to have been received in unsolicited email messages.

Protection

• Virus Definitions (LiveUpdate™ Weekly) August 18, 2003
• Virus Definitions (Intelligent Updater) August 18, 2003

TECHNICAL DETAILS

When installed, this dialer will attempt to access a Web site. Once there, if you choose to proceed, the dialer will attempt to call a high-cost number by using the modem.

When Dialer.ConnectParty is installed, it adds these registry keys:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESoftwareSiteIconsDialersConnect2Party

HKEY_CURRENT_USER.DefaultSoftwareSiteIconsDialersConnect2Party


The dialer may also add one or more icons to the Windows desktop.

This dialer is sometimes referred to as the "Live show" dialer.

REMOVAL

1. Update the virus definitions.
2. Close modem connections.
3. Run a full system scan and delete all the files detected as Dialer.ConnectParty.
4. Delete the keys that were added to the registry.
   

For specific details on each of these steps, read the following instructions.

1. Updating the virus definitions
Symantec Security Response fully tests all the virus definitions for quality assurance before they are posted to our servers. There are two ways to obtain the most recent virus definitions:

• Running LiveUpdate, which is the easiest way to obtain virus definitions: These virus definitions are posted to the LiveUpdate servers once each week (usually on Wednesdays), unless there is a major virus outbreak. To determine whether definitions for this threat are available by LiveUpdate, refer to the Virus Definitions (LiveUpdate).
• Downloading the definitions using the Intelligent Updater: The Intelligent Updater virus definitions are posted on U.S. business days (Monday through Friday). You should download the definitions from the Symantec Security Response Web site and manually install them. To determine whether definitions for this threat are available by the Intelligent Updater, refer to the Virus Definitions (Intelligent Updater).
  
  The Intelligent Updater virus definitions are available: Read "How to update virus definition files using the Intelligent Updater" for detailed instructions.

2. To close modem connections
This risk uses available modems to create an Internet connection, sometimes without any visible signs. In order to successfully remove this threat, ensure that all modem-based Internet connections are disconnected before proceeding. For instructions on how to do this, consult the appropriate Internet service provider, computer manufacturer, or operating system documentation.

3. Scanning for and deleting the infected files

1. Start Norton AntiVirus and make sure that it is configured to scan all the files. For more information, read the document, "How to configure Norton AntiVirus to scan all files."
2. Run a full system scan.
3. If any files are detected as infected with Dialer.ConnectParty, click Delete.
   

4. Deleting the keys from the registry

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WARNING: Symantec strongly recommends that you back up the registry before making any changes to it. Incorrect changes to the registry can result in permanent data loss or corrupted files. Modify the specified keys only. Read the document, "How to make a backup of the Windows registry," for instructions.

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1. Click Start, and then click Run. (The Run dialog box appears.)
2. Type regedit
   
   Then click OK. (The Registry Editor opens.)
   
   
3. Navigate to and delete the keys:
   
   HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESoftwareSiteIconsDialersConnect2Party
   HKEY_CURRENT_USER.DefaultSoftwareSiteIconsDialersConnect2Party
   
   
4. Exit the registry editor.