Viruses in Email

[Guest]

Just to let you all know that there are a few viruses going out. I viewed one that was shown to come from info@verticalreference.com but it was not from me. Anyway, be cautious about opening attachments. For one of the viruses I found in an attachment (W32.SoBig...) here is the stand alone (doesn't need a virus scan) software that can detect it and remove it:

 

http://vil.nai.com/vil/stinger/

 

Just keep your DAT and Virus Signature Files up to date on your virus scan and you should be good.

[RDRickster]

Computer systems, much like helicopters, require preventive maintenance and component upgrades.  The recent worm and variant programs that have brought down many systems in recent days, but this is easily prevented.  In fact, Microsoft provided a patch for these vulnerabilities LAST MONTH!

 

There are very few "true" hackers that have the programming ability and inside knowledge to get into systems.  Most malicious applications come from amateurs that download tools and scripts, and eventually put them into a program.  They don't really understand them, but they can follow a cook book.  There are many websites that post how to build virus for "educational" purposes (i.e. http://www.2600.com/).  Here's how to get the AD's for your ship...

 

SIGN UP FOR AUTOMATED E-MAILS WHEN A NEW PATCH HAS BEEN RELEASED, YOU GET NOTIFIED:

 

http://www.microsoft.com/technet....ify.asp

 

MANUALLY UPDATE YOUR SYSTEM FOR WINDOWS:

 

http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com

 

1)  Must use Internet Explorer to use this

2)  Click on "Yes" if you see a security warning

3)  Click "Scan" to see what you are missing

4)  Load "Critical Updates" at a minimum, but you really should load everything available

 

MANUALLY UPDATE YOUR SYSTEM FOR OFFICE:

 

http://office.microsoft.com/productupdates/

1)  Must use Internet Explorer to use this

2)  Click on "Yes" if you see a security warning

3)  Click "Scan" to see what you are missing

4)  Load each option, ONE AT A TIME

5)  You MUST have the original CD-ROM that contains the version of Microsoft Office you currently use; follow the on-screen directions

 

IF YOU THINK YOU'VE BEEN INFECTED, HERE ARE FREE TOOLS TO FIX IT (YOU DON'T NEED TO HAVE OR PURCHASE NORTON):

 

http://securityresponse.symantec.com/avcente....ol.html

 

http://securityresponse.symantec.com/avcente....ol.html

 

IF YOU HAVE A MAC, UNIX, OR LINUX SYSTEM:

 

Your Operating System vendor has their own tools available to keep your system up to date.  MacIntosh has one of the best tools for that because it will update your application software at the same time you update your OS.

 

OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS:

 

Even if you only use dial-up, you should have a personal firewall at a minimum + antivirus software.  Windows XP has a basic version that you can turn on; it will work for your purposes.  AOL Version 9.0 was released today, and it includes antivirus and firewall capability (for those with Windows 9x, Me, and 2000).

 

If you have broadband (Cable Modem, ISDN, IDSL, ADSL, SDSL, Satellite, Frame-Relay, Fractional T-1, or T-1), you need a more advanced packet-filtering STATEFUL firewall to protect your computer(s).  There are a lot to choose from; just get one.  Symantec has some nice packages that are inexpensive.