While setting a port for Symantec to query XP Pro workstations for virus updates, I noticed two machines that had firewall rules (exceptions in WinXP firewall parlance) that were in unreadable charcaters, such as an asian font set that couldn't be displayed. The rule name was in blocks or in other unreadable characters. The user of these two workstations is notorious for downloading asian TV shows over bit torrent, and visiting anime and other asian sites.
I deleted the two firewall rules (DOH! I should have just disabled them) and now IE and Mozilla browsers do not work at all. I can ping out of these two machines, and as long as I use an IP address, these machines can ping anywhere in the Internet. However, if any call to DNS is requires, either with a browser or ICMP, it fails. Has anyone had a similar experience or seen this kind of behavior. My fear is that one of the "special Korean download programs" that this user admits installing has altered the browser or -- even worse - the XP TCP/IP stack with hooks into a trojan or spyware product. I tried disabling the firewall to allow all traffic in and out, but to no effect. No DNS functionality. My packet traces are inconclusive and my IDS is not alerting on anything in or out of these two work stations. Any ideas? At this point I know I am going to have to reload, but from a forensic stand point, I am curious if any one else has seen this kind of beavior before. Thanks. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ This List Sponsored by: Black Hat Attend the Black Hat Briefings & Training USA, July 29-August 3 in Las Vegas. World renowned security experts reveal tomorrow's threats today. Free of vendor pitches, the Briefings are designed to be pragmatic regardless of your security environment. Featuring 36 hands-on training courses and 10 conference tracks, networking opportunities with over 2,500 delegates from 40+ nations. http://www.blackhat.com ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
