Despite advances in computer security and ever-improving antivirus software, malware and viruses are still a very present threat.

You don’t need to study every virus to keep yourself and your rig safe.

But learning more about the most common and easily transmitted malware can help to keep your devices secure.

close up of a windows 11 laptop

What Is the Bondat Virus?

Bondat is a throw in of virus called aworm.

The virus was first identified in 2013 and consistently appeared in malware detection lists.

A removable USB flash drive

Variations of Bondat continue to cause problems for Windows users up to the present day.

That information is then sent to a remote server.

If it finds a suitable file, it will replicate itself and infect that file.

Scan options in Microsoft defender

If the USB drive is inserted into another computer, the virus spreads.

Worms are so-called because they can replicate themselves without any human interaction.

Worms, including Bondat, can be used to deliver additional malware, including ransomware.

How Bondat Is Transmitted

Bondat is most commonly transmitted through Java installers and removable USB drives.

It can also arrive through software installers that use a fake Nullsoft Scriptable Install System (NSIS).

As long as your AV software is up-to-date.

Some antivirus software can be set to automatically scan USB drives when they are connected.

This feature may be disabled or unavailable, so manually scanning removable drives is a good habit to develop.

It’s also be a good idea todisable the Windows AutoPlay featurefor removable USB drives.

If a removable drive is run automatically, your gear could be infected before the drive can be scanned.

Here’s how to ensure you’re able to find and remove this malware from your Windows PC.

Firstly, check that your antivirus software is up-to-date and using the most recent virus definitions.

If your AV software is not set to automatically stay updated, consider enabling the auto-update feature.

Removable drives, including USB flash drives, may not be included in a full scan.

Fortunately, you canscan a connected removable drive in Microsoft Defender.

Third-party antivirus software should have a similar option to scan removable drives.