Today's stop on our journey through the deadliest viruses in computer history is dedicated to the "Melissa" virus.
Melissa is a macro virus that spreads through Microsoft Word 97 and 2000, as well as Microsoft Excel 97, 2000, and 2003. Melissa has the ability to replicate itself and send e-mail through programs such as Microsoft Outlook 97 or Outlook 98.
[alert variation=”alert-info”]Many popular applications, such as Microsoft Word and Microsoft Outlook, allow macros to be embedded in files or emails, so that these programs are automatically executed when the file is opened. A macro virus – or “document virus” – is a virus written in a macro language that is embedded in files, and when the files are opened, the virus is automatically executed, infecting systems.[/alert]
Also known as Mailissa, Simpsons, Kwyjibo or Kwejeebo, the Melissa was created in 1999 by American David L. Smith. According to Smith, the virus was not intended to cause any harm, but its simple way of spreading (each infected computer sent multiple infected e-mails) overloaded computer systems and e-mail servers around the world, causing millions of dollars in damage.
Smith's virus was unusual in that it was initially hidden in a Word file called "List.doc," which contained passwords for 80 pornographic websites. If the user made the mistake of opening the attached file, the virus would activate, replicate itself, and send a similar message to the first 50 recipients it found in the victim's address book.
A week after the virus emerged, authorities were able to electronically trace Smith, who was arrested, confessing to his guilt.
[signoff icon=”icon-target”]Although more than 60,000 virus-laden emails have been discovered, Smith is the only person to have served time in federal prison in the United States for sending a single virus. Smith was sentenced to 10 years in prison and a $5,000 fine, but ultimately served 20 months.[/signoff]
Melissa was among the first viruses to spread via email, exploiting vulnerabilities in Microsoft Office, and caused over $80 million in damage, mainly due to the infection of corporate email systems. Companies such as Microsoft, Intel, Lockheed Martin, and Lucent Technologies were forced to limit their email gateways due to the large volume of emails generated by the virus.
…And somewhere here our review of the Melissa virus has come to an end. But don't forget… our journey to the most famous viruses of all time doesn't stop here! We renew our appointment for next week with another virus to be discussed…. Stay tuned!
