A multipartite virus is a type of malware capable of infecting both the boot sector and executable files on a device. Compared to other viruses that typically target a single area, multipartite viruses target multiple infection vectors, making them more challenging and complicated to remove. If only one infection vector is dealt with, the remaining parts of the virus can continue to disrupt system operations and compromise data integrity.
The first multipartite virus, known as Ghostball, was first discovered in 1989. It was created by a cybercriminal that combined the code of two preexisting viruses. The hacker tool the Vienna virus’ ability to attack .COM files (the predecessor to .exe program files) and the Ping Pong virus’ ability to infect boot sectors. While older computers’ boot sectors were more susceptible to falling prey to multipartite viruses via infected floppy disks, these viruses can still infect a Master Boot Record (MBR) in modern devices to disrupt system operations.
How do multipartite viruses work?
Multipartite viruses target both the boot sector and executable files. The virus attaches itself to the boot sector, the critical part of a storage device that contains the code necessary for the system to start up. This allows the virus to execute before the operating system (OS) fully loads, giving it early control to spread further. While this is happening, the virus infects executable program files. Simply launching a compromised program allows the virus to locate and infect other executable files.
How do multipartite viruses spread?
Multipartite viruses spread through infected executable files that can be masked through malicious links or drive-by downloads. Suspicious websites, popups, and emails act as vehicles for cybercriminals to convince users to click malicious links that infect a device with a multipartite virus. Infected physical storage media such as USB drives and CDs can also spread a multipartite virus.
What are multipartite virus symptoms?
Here are some key indicators that a multipartite virus has infected an endpoint device:
Degraded system performance
A noticeable decrease in system performance can indicate the presence of a multipartite virus. Infected devices are significantly slower, and users may experience unexplained error messages. This is because a multipartite virus consumes significant system resources while executing malicious tasks.
Frequent system crashes
When a multipartite virus infects the boot sector, it causes repeated crashes and system restarts. This is because multipartite viruses can prevent the device’s system from locating files needed for a boot sequence.
Unexpected file changes
Multipartite viruses often modify or corrupt files, leading to unexpected changes or loss of important data. In some cases, files can even go missing. Another change can be an increase in the file sizes of infected executable files.
Connection issues
Infected devices may get an error message indicating a failure to establish an internet connection.
Software launch failures
Systems infected by a multipartite virus can struggle to launch applications and show error messages instead.
Disabled IT security software
Multipartite viruses can sometimes disable these applications to bypass antivirus and antimalware software, allowing them to infect more files. Some multipartite viruses can even reformat a device’s physical hardware, allowing them to continue infecting a system even with antimalware installed.
How to prevent multipartite viruses and protect devices
Due to the self-replicating nature of multipartite viruses, dealing with an infection can prove tricky for IT security professionals. While a technician can remove parts of a multipartite virus, the virus can continue to infect the system as long as fragments remain within the system. This can sometimes require completely formatting a hard drive.
Prevention is always better than cure, especially with multipartite viruses due to how difficult they can be to remove. Here are some proactive steps you can take to prevent multipartite virus infections:
Utilize remote monitoring tools
With remote monitoring software, IT security experts gain full visibility over their endpoint devices. The best remote monitoring software offer time-saving and security-enhancing features, such as custom alerts that quickly notify technicians of any suspicious activity.
Regularly backup system and files
Since multipartite viruses can modify and even delete files without a user’s knowledge, maintaining secure backups of sensitive data is one of the best ways to ensure business continuity. Automated backup software allows IT teams to create copies of sensitive data and quickly restore any data impacted by a multipartite virus infection.
Invest in reliable antivirus and antimalware software
Running reputable and consistently updated antivirus and antimalware software can help IT administrators manage these attacks. These types of software allow users to identify, quarantine, and remove any files infected with multipartite viruses.
Train end-users to spot suspicious activity
One of the most common methods for cybercriminals to spread viruses is through tricking users into downloading infected fuels. Cybercriminals accomplish this by using social engineering techniques such as spear phishing and malvertising. Educating users on how to identify phishing emails and report any suspicious activity to IT security teams can help prevent multipartite virus attacks.
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Experience comprehensive endpoint protection from multipartite viruses
Preventing cyberattacks from multipartite viruses should be a top priority for any IT security professional. These attacks can cause disruptions, drive up costs, and compromise data integrity. Utilizing endpoint security software such as NinjaOne allows organizations to take proactive steps to safeguard data, achieve IT compliance, and ensure business continuity and disaster recovery.
NinjaOne offers a comprehensive RMM solution that consolidates several enterprise IT security tools into one easy-to-use dashboard. Secure your IT environment with G2’s #1 RMM software. The NinjaOne RMM platform makes it easy to prevent multipartite virus attacks with real-time device monitoring, secure backup for critical files, and patch management that ensures applications and OSes never miss the latest security patches. Sign up for a 14-day free trial.
