Although not programmed to damage computers or their files, apparently due to an error in the program, the Internet Worm replicated rapidly within host computers. Infected computers were rendered useless because their processing capability was absorbed by multiple copies of the worm program. In order to eliminate the Internet Worm, an ad hoc response team was created consisting of experts at MIT, Berkeley, Purdue and other sites.
Most incidents are limited, and involve the use of known techniques.
Many of these inquiries involve neither incident response nor vulnerabilities, and are more properly handled by software or hardware vendors. These advisories give general information about the nature of the vulnerabilities and specific details of how these vulnerabilities may be eliminated or mitigated. In order to prevent aiding attackers in exploiting these vulnerabilities, this information is only given to the appropriate vendors and individuals requiring the information in order to correct the vulnerabilities. Information about actual incidents, particularly the sites involved and the techniques used, are strictly confidential. First, if sites were to be identified, particularly during an incident, they may become targets for additional attacks.