Microsoft Issues Malware Removal Tool

As expected, Microsoft has begun to provide customers with a malicious software removal tool. The tool is available to users of Windows XP, 2000 and Windows Server 2003, and will be updated on the second Tuesday of every month.

Customers may manually download the tool to run local scans, or they may run scans directly from the tool's Web page. Scans detect and remove infections by many prevalent viruses including the Blaster, Sasser and Mydoom worms.

Distribution channels include Windows Update, the Microsoft Download Center and the tool's product homepage.

Microsoft advises customers who may not observe any visible signs of infection to run the tool anyway to ensure their safety from malware, and encourages the use of up-to-date antivirus software.

Online malware scans require Microsoft Internet Explorer. Windows Update automatic updates will refresh builds on a monthly basis.