1. Smart Fortress Incident

2. The Initial Issue EXTREMELY slow system performance

3. Running Windows XP Professional Version 2002 Due to old, poorly managed system…? Or something worse…?

4. The Real Problem Security Monitor: WARNING! Attention! System detected a potential hazard (TrojanSPM/LX) on your computer that may infect executable files. Your private information and PC safety is at risk. To get rid of unwanted spyware and keep your computer safe you need to update your current security software. Click Yes to download official intrusion detection system (IDS software).

5. Smart Fortress 2012

6. Smart Fortress 2012 Info Type: Spyware Analysis: Installs & gathers info from a PC without user permission Cause of Infection: By downloading freeware & shareware Common Symptoms: Alters PC settings, excessive pop-ups, degraded PC performance

7. What’s the Big Deal? Smart Fortress 2012 appears as a simple annoyance However, simply “removing” the program WILL NOT WORK Gets worse as it remains on the system Eventually DENIES ALL ACCESS Warning! Application cannot be executed. The file is infected. Please activate your antivirus software.

9. http://trojan-killer.net/absolutely-approach-smart-fortress-virus-removal/ Trojan Killer

10. Utilizing Malwarebytes

11. Issues Faced & Lessons Learned Essentially no response from company employees – Nonchalant attitude – No IT dept/person whatsoever Lack of acknowledgement/understanding of importance of computer & network security Disregard to consequences of ignoring security issues & vulnerabilities Took a receptionist to realize there was a problem………