Operational Briefing
The virus that broke the hearts of millions. A simple VBScript attached to an email with the subject "ILOVEYOU" caused billions in damages.
The Full Story
The ILOVEYOU virus (or Love Bug) was a computer worm that attacked tens of millions of Windows personal computers in 2000. It spread via email with the subject line "ILOVEYOU" and an attachment "LOVE-LETTER-FOR-YOU.TXT.vbs".
Technical Analysis
Script Kiddie Masterpiece
- Language: Visual Basic Script (VBS).
- Mechanism: Relied on Windows hiding file extensions by default (users saw .TXT).
- Action: Overwrote image and audio files, then mailed itself to all contacts in the Outlook address book.
Available Modes
Offensive
Replicate the attack vector
Defensive
Harden systems & patch
Analysis
Forensic investigation
Event Timeline
May 4, 2000
Virus originates in the Philippines.
May 5, 2000
Pentagon, CIA, and British Parliament shut down email.
May 2000
Estimated 10% of internet-connected computers infected.
#Social Engineering#VBScript#Virus