Definition

Kriz virus (W32.Kriz, W32.Kriz.dr, or PE_KRIZ)

Discovered in the fall of 1999, the Kriz virus (known more formally as W32.Kriz, W32.Kriz.dr, or PE_KRIZ) infects files on Windows 9x and Windows NT and 2000 systems. It has a potentially devastating payload that triggers on December 25th of any year once an infected file is run. When this happen the virus overwrites files on the floppy disk drive, hard drive, RAM drive, and network drives. It also erases the information stored on the computer's basic input/output system ( BIOS ). Although this can only happen on certain types of BIOS systems, a successful attempt could prevent the computer from booting up - even if a floppy disk is used. This behavior is similar to that caused by the CIH virus . In some cases, the Kriz virus will corrupt the file it infects and cleaning may not be possible.

Next Steps

W32.Kriz is known as a polymorphic virus, meaning it will reside in computer memory until the next time the system is rebooted. This virus encrypts its code, leaving only a small random decryptor. This virus will infect files as they are opened by any application while it is in memory. This will occur when a user scans files as well. In other words, computers users may be infected but not know about the virus until the following Dec. 25.

The Kriz virus is also known as Win32/Kriz, Win32.Kriz.3862, and Win32.Kriz.3740.

This was last updated in March 2011
Posted by: Margaret Rouse

Related Terms

Definitions

  • virtual patching

    - Virtual patching is the quick development and short-term implementation of a security policy meant to prevent an exploit from occurring as a result of a newly discovered vulnerability. A virtual pa... (WhatIs.com)

  • out-of-band patch

    - An out-of-band patch is a patch released at some time other than the normal release time. Microsoft, for example, normally releases patches on the second Tuesday of every month. (WhatIs.com)

  • egress filtering

    - Egress filtering is a process in which outbound data is monitored or restricted, usually by means of a firewall that blocks packets that fail to meet certain security requirements. (WhatIs.com)

Glossaries

  • Security threats and countermeasures

    - Terms related to security threats, including definitions about anti-virus programs or firewalls and words and phrases about malware, viruses, Trojans and other security attacks.

  • Network security

    - Terms related to network security, including definitions about intrusion prevention and words and phrases about VPNs and firewalls.

  • Peripherals

    - Terms related to peripheral devices including definitions about keyboards or mice and words and phrases about printers, monitors, digital cameras and scanners.

Ask a Question. Find an Answer.Powered by ITKnowledgeExchange.com

Ask An IT Question

Get answers from your peers on your most technical challenges

Ask Question

Tech TalkComment

Share
Comments

    Results

    Contribute to the conversation

    All fields are required. Comments will appear at the bottom of the article.
    Back to top