What is the Son of Stuxnet
Duqu Computer Worm is like super virus that could wreak havoc
The Son of Stuxnet is a new and dangerous computer worm that is threatening the infrastructure of computers around the globe. Also called Duqu, it shares so much code with the Stuxnet worm that scientists believe that it has been fashioned out of the Computer Worm that is famous for setting back the Iranian nuclear program by destabilizing uranium centrifuges. According to a news release from Symantec, the worm has been gathering information from various government and private networks and systems, and it would appear that the information could be used to mount a coordinated attack on infrastructure systems. The Dubu worm creates a back door into infected computers and communicates with command computer(s) in India, though no actions appear to be directed at this point in time. The danger of worms like Duqu or Stuxnet is that they can infect embedded systems in many parts of a facility and send faulty information back to a user who would not know that machines are operating in an unsafe manner. Secondarily, the ability to shut off a few key communication points could lead to mechanical failure in very expensive systems like turbines, which could cost millions to replace. Even if a worm took down one power system or plant, the power grid would have to struggle to redirect energy, and a coordinated attack could theoretically keep people in the dark for days.
Notes and Special Information
Special note: Brace for the Return of the Son of Stuxnet, and I Know What You Did Last Stuxnet.