Choke worm definition
The choke worm was a type of malware from 2001 that spread through MSN Messenger. It copied itself as choke.exe, messed with startup settings, and sent infected files to contacts. While it wasn’t harmful, it was annoying with pop-up error messages and isn’t active anymore.
See also: anti-malware
How the choke worm infection worked
- Initial infection. You’d unknowingly download and open an infected file, usually sent through MSN Messenger.
- Self-replication. Once it ran, the worm copied itself as choke.exe on your computer.
- Startup hijack. It changed your system settings so choke.exe would run every time you booted up.
- Spreading to contacts. It sent messages to your contacts on MSN, trying to get them to download the same infected file.
- Annoying pop-ups. The worm would annoy you with pop-up error messages, but it didn’t cause any serious damage.
- Deactivation. Eventually, it became inactive and isn’t a threat anymore.
How to prevent choke worm infections
- Keep your system, apps, and security software updated.
- Don’t download files from unknown sources or strange messages.
- Antivirus software helps block malware before it causes damage.
- Firewalls block harmful traffic and stop malware from spreading.
- Be cautious with links, even if they seem to come from friends.
- Always double-check attachments and links to avoid scams.
