XM.Laroux

XM.Laroux is a virus first discovered in July 1996 in Africa and Alaska and is the first working Excel macro virus found in general circulation. The actual virus code consists of two macros called Auto_Open and Check_Files. The macros are stored in a hidden datasheet named "laroux".

Protection

• Initial Rapid Release version December 19, 2000
• Latest Rapid Release version December 19, 2000
• Initial Daily Certified version December 19, 2000
• Latest Daily Certified version December 19, 2000
• Initial Weekly Certified release date pending

Click here for a more detailed description of Rapid Release and Daily Certified virus definitions.

Threat Assessment

Wild

• Wild Level: Low
• Number of Infections: 0 - 49
• Number of Sites: 0 - 2
• Geographical Distribution: Low
• Threat Containment: Easy
• Removal: Easy

Damage

• Damage Level: Low

Distribution

• Distribution Level: Low