Hacktivist collective Anonymous now has its own desktop operating system, pre-loaded with tools for finding Website vulnerabilities and simulating denial-of-service attacks. However, some members are already distancing themselves from the software.
Anonymous-OS is based off Ubuntu and uses MATE, an alternative user interface. It comes pre-loaded with a variety of hacking programs, such as the denial-of-service attack simulator Ddosim, the exploit scanner Sql Poison and the password cracker John the Ripper. It also comes decked out in Anonymous logos and slogans.
A Tumblr blog with information about the OS says it was created "for educational purposes" and for "checking the security of Web pages." The blog cautions users not to use the OS to attack any Websites, lest you "end up in jail because it is a crime in most countries!"
The Hacker News first spotted the OS yesterday, but already, one of Anonymous' Twitter feeds is warning users to be careful. Some members were recently tricked into installing a trojan, so this supposed OS could be another trap.
Such are the inherent pitfalls with a hacking group that has no leadership. When the FBI brought down splinter group LulzSec last week, with its alleged leader acting as an informant, Anonymous members quickly pointed out that they have no leader, and that they represent "an idea, not a group."
While that mentality may prevent law enforcement from dismantling Anonymous from the top, it also allows anyone to act as a member and release products supposedly on the group's behalf.
IDG News Service