Olympus shipped malware-laced cameras in Japan
submitted by markodonoghue on 17 June 2010
Olympus has apologised after it distributed a digital camera in Japan that came with added malware on its internal memory card.
An estimated 1,700 Stylus Tough 6010 digital cameras shipped with auto-run code designed virus' to infect Windows PCs they were connected to. The malware uses a USB connection infection route that has become one of the most popular means of malware distribution recently.
Olympus has apologised for the problem and promised to improve its quality control procedures to prevent future outbreaks. The incident is the latest in a long line of digital devices that come pre-infected with malware. Recent examples include Samsung Wave phones shipped in Germany, TomTom satellite navigation devices and Apple Video iPods. Last month IBM handed out malware-ridden USB sticks at a security conference in Australia.
These infestations normally start with an infected PC on production lines or testing rigs used by gadget manufacturers and their partners. Suppliers need to apply improved quality controls to minimise embarrassing digital device incidents. Meanwhile consumers are advised to disable Autorun in Windows, as a guard against possible attacks.
But, disabling Autorun in Windows won't do much good as you'll continue to explore the device's contents, presuming that the device is safe. The only way to get around this problem is for the manufacturers to completely replace the computers which test and come in contact with the products.
Submitted by:
Mark O'Donoghue
Associated Links:
http://www.theregister.co.uk/2010/06/09/olympus_pre_pwned_digital_camera/
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