Avast WEBforum

Other => General Topics => Topic started by: Bellzemos on November 17, 2009, 06:55:34 PM

Title: WMV files
Post by: Bellzemos on November 17, 2009, 06:55:34 PM
As far as I know, one can't get infected by opening an AVI or MPG file. But I've read that WMV files can contain scripts that could link to malware. So, if I get a WMV file and then convert it to AVI format (with video conversion software), will that eliminate the script that was written in WMV file?
Title: Re: WMV files
Post by: DavidR on November 17, 2009, 07:45:27 PM
Don't believe all that you read whilst most media files can't be infected as such some can be constructed to exploit the media player vulnerabilities, so it is essential that you keep your media player up to date.

As for converting the media format, depending on what has been done to the file it may not convert. However, what's wrong with simply scanning it as it would be a major pain in the rear to convert all your WMV/A files to another format.
Title: Re: WMV files
Post by: PTRPRO on November 17, 2009, 10:29:47 PM
Check your Avast exclusions to make sure *.wmv isn't there.
Title: Re: WMV files
Post by: DavidR on November 17, 2009, 11:11:10 PM
It isn't in the default exclusion set, so should be scanned.
Title: Re:
Post by: superhacker on November 18, 2009, 12:00:25 AM
hi brothers
may be he talk about symbian s60 worms,and yes in this case your"phone"will get infected
Title: Re: WMV files
Post by: Bellzemos on November 18, 2009, 12:10:49 AM
No no, I was thinking about my PC, not my phone. My phone's also too old to be able to open or even receive any video data.

And no, I have no exckusions set in Avast, I like all my files scanned from time to time.

Well, nothing's wrong with simply scanning all the video files with Avast, but I still can't be sure, no AV has a 100% malware detection rate.

Thank you all for answers! :)
Title: Re:
Post by: superhacker on November 18, 2009, 12:13:14 AM
i am replying now from my phone.