Multiple Programs – JAVA.EXE

Java.exe amd javaw.exe install with the Java Runtime Environment (JRE) from Sun Microsystems. These files add support for Java to your web browser. In the past, Microsoft had bundled Java with Internet Explorer. Due to copyright considerations, they can no longer do this so the Java plugin from Sun Microsystems is required. This legitimate java.exe file will appear in a path similar to this: c:\program Files\Java\jre1.5.0_08\bin\java.exe. The numbers may vary. If you see "jre" in the path name, you can be confident that you have the real thing. You'll find more information and the latest version of the Java Runtime Environment at http://www.java.com/en/download/manual.jsp. Once you install the latest version of the Java Runtime Environment, be sure to remove any older files. This flaw in the Java Runtime Environment could be used by an untrusted applet to access the system clipboard.

A file called java.exe also installs with the W32.Mydoom.N@mm variant of the MyDoom virus. This worm spreads through email. It installs its own smtp server and sends itself as an attached file to any email address it finds on your computer. Often the email will come from a spoofed "from" address. It may also install the Backdoor.Zincite.A virus. We'd recommend removing this file using WinPatrol. First, go to your Active Tasks tab. Kill java.exe and services.exe (if it appears there). Next, remove both of these files from your Startup Programs. We'd also recommend a full system scan with an up to date antivirus program. Additional background information on this worm can be found at http://securityresponse.symantec.com/avcenter/venc/data/w32.mydoom.n@mm.html.

Safe if not Virus

Sun Microsystems