Malware, or “malicious software,” describes any software program designed to damage or do other unwanted actions to a computer system. Common examples of malware include viruses and worms, such as Cryptolocker Virus, any number of Java-base vulnerabilities, exploits in Internet Explorer and literally millions more.
How does OpenDNS help?
By default, OpenDNS blocks Internet-scale bots from resolving for all OpenDNS users and provides more comprehensive malware site protection for OpenDNS Enterprise users. This means even if the virus has penetrated machines on your network, it is rendered useless because it cannot connect back to the Command and Control Callback. When you're surfing normally and come across an infected websites, perhaps through ad content or a redirection on web page, OpenDNS will also block that connection from going through, which prevents you from becoming infected in the first place.
How can I tell if my network or computer is infected?
OpenDNS will display an infection warning when you log in to your account. You can also simply log in to your account and select Stats on the left sidebar. From there choose Blocked Domains and filter “only domains blocked as malware.” This will generate a list of malware sites your network has attempted to connect with. Often when users first sign up with OpenDNS, we're able to block infections they simply weren't aware of at first.
Can you tell me which computer is infected?
If you are using Active Directory on your network, OpenDNS Umbrella can provide reporting on what machine or device on your network is infected. Alternately, the Umbrella Roaming Client works for this purpose.
If you are not using OpenDNS Umbrella, then we will only be able to see the external IP address from which your DNS requests are originating. In those cases, we will not be able to provide information on the specific computers or devices on your network that are infected.
How can I remove Malware?
We would suggest using a spyware removal program to address the malicious content infecting your computer. Unfortunately, we do not have the resources to offer support for its removal, though there are plenty of tools online and Microsoft offers a free antivirus. Kaspersky Labs and Malwarebytes also offer some helpful tools for removing malware infections.
Is OpenDNS spamming me?
The short answer is no, because:
- Your web security is very important to us. OpenDNS does not send spam or malicious queries. If you have received spam you should examine the headers to determine where the email originated.
- If you are seeing spam or virus attacks listing from an OpenDNS IP address this is because your email or antivirus software is trying to look up the attacker