Automatic client responses to worm or hacker attacks

Abstract

A system in which a networked device automatically evaluates hacker attack notification information and, based thereon, selects and executes responses to the attack. The notification may include information such as the address of the infected system, identification of the specific worm, and a list of vulnerable applications and operating systems. The evaluation is based on factors including criticality and vulnerability of applications running on the system and connectivity of the device. A variety of automatic responses can be selected, including notification of network administration, shutdown of the device or services running on the device, updating and activation of anti-virus software, and selective handling of data sent from the address of the suspect network device. The selection of responses can occur automatically based on rules input during setup or by intervention of network administration.