Reliable Embedded Systems

The malicious program does not pose a threat to ISS command or control systems because the infected laptops were only used to run nutritional programs and to let the astronauts send email back to Earth. An astronaut might have taken Gammima.AG into space via a flash or USB drive, and there have been reports that the astronauts did not have any antivirus software on their laptops. The spacecraft does not have a direct connection, and incoming data is scanned before it is transmitted. The computer virus, first detected on Earth in August 2007, is designed to steal passwords and login names so popular online games can be played. Computer viruses have been taken to ISS before, but NASA describes them as only a "nuisance." However, it now plans to install security systems.

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