Voyager (computer worm)

Voyager was a computer worm that primarily targeted Microsoft Windows operating systems. Discovered in the early 2000s, Voyager spread through email attachments and peer-to-peer (P2P) file-sharing networks. Its payload varied depending on the specific variant, but common actions included stealing sensitive information, such as passwords and credit card details, and sending spam emails from infected machines.

The worm's propagation methods often involved disguising itself as legitimate files, using double file extensions (e.g., "document.txt.exe") to trick users into executing the malicious program. Social engineering tactics were also employed in email campaigns to entice users to open infected attachments.

Once active on a system, Voyager would typically install itself in a hidden location and modify system registry keys to ensure its persistence after rebooting the computer. It often attempted to disable or circumvent anti-virus software and firewalls to avoid detection and removal. Some versions of Voyager also included backdoor functionality, allowing remote attackers to gain control of the compromised machine.

The impact of Voyager varied depending on the extent of the infection and the specific payload delivered. Affected users experienced slow system performance, data loss, and a higher risk of identity theft. The spam email campaigns launched from infected machines contributed to network congestion and overwhelmed email servers.

Voyager's prevalence decreased over time as anti-virus vendors updated their signature databases to detect and remove the worm. Users who practiced safe computing habits, such as avoiding suspicious email attachments and keeping their anti-virus software up-to-date, were less likely to be affected.