Virus detection by executing e-mail code in a virtual machine
US7607171B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 18, 2002 |
| Grant date | Oct 20, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 6, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04L63/145
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
An intermediary isolation server receives e-mails and isolates any viral behavior from harming its intended destination. After the intermediary receives an e-mail, it determines that the e-mail has associated executable code, and then identifies the environment in which the e-mail code would be executed if delivered. The intermediary then executes the code by emulating how it would be executed in its ultimate environment. If a viral-like behavior is detected, appropriate action is taken to prevent the execution of the code at its intended destination. The attachment is executed in a contained environment that allows for the contained environment to be easily restarted in a clean state.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.