Casino (computer virus)
| Casino | |
|---|---|
| Malware details | |
| Type | DOS |
| Subtype | COM |
| Classification | Virus |
| Isolation date | April 1991 |
| Origin | Malta |
| Author | Unknown |
Casino, also referred to as disk destroyer by Mikko Hyppönen, is a DOS computer virus that upon running the infected file, copies the File Allocation Tables (FATs) to random-access memory (RAM), then deletes the FAT from the hard disk. It challenges the user to a game of Jackpot of which they have 5 credits to play with, hence the name. No matter if they win or lose, the computer shuts down, thereby making them have to reinstall their DOS. The message it shows when it challenges the user read(s):
|
DISK DESTROYER - A SOUVENIR OF MALTA I have just DESTROYED the FAT on your Disk !! However, I have a copy in RAM, and I'm giving you a last chance to restore your precious data. WARNING: IF YOU RESET NOW, ALL YOUR DATA WILL BE LOST - FOREVER !! Your Data depends on a game of JACKPOT CASINO DE MALTE JACKPOT |
Casino activates on 15 January, 15 April, and 15 August.[1]
Casino was among the classic DOS viruses included in a "Malware Museum", created by Jason Scott of the Internet Archive and Mikko Hyppönen of F-secure in 2016.[2]
In popular culture
In 2021, the virus was referenced in the A Virus, Heartbreak and a World of Possibilities episode of Young Sheldon.
References
- ↑ Tung, Liam (Feb 8, 2016). "Want the full MS-DOS virus experience? Time for a night at the Malware Museum". ZDNET. Retrieved 2026-06-06.
- ↑ Ohlheiser, Abby (2016-02-09). "Relive the golden age of computer viruses, without the danger, at the Malware museum". The Sydney Morning Herald. Retrieved 2026-06-06.
Sources
- "Casino.2330". McAfee Inc. Retrieved 17 June 2011.