Difference: LinuxVirus (2 vs. 3)

NYSBC recently attempted to update one spectrometer Linux workstation to the most recent Red Hat OS and TOPSPIN versions. In error, the Red Hat installation phase was performed with the workstation attached to the world wide web. During this period, it appears that a virus script was introduced to the workstation. Several days later, the workstation attempted to download other scripts from a remote site, but was blocked by the NYSBC firewall. The script, recognizing the block, then modified multiple files on the system, effectively shutting it down.

You are advised that it appears that the Red Hat installation leaves the system very susceptible during the multiple reboots during setup, with a generic root password.

It will be NYSBC practice that all OS installations be done on systems physically disconnected from any internet connection.

-- DavidCowburn - 07 Sep 2004