Computer Virus Information
TrendMicro's OfficeScan is the currently supported antivirus
software for UW computers (with the exception of NT servers). This is a FREE service from Information Technology! OfficeScan antivirus software is updated automatically. If
you don't have OfficeScan or you are unsure if you are running the current
version, visit the Antivirus FAQs page (http://www.uwyo.edu/ASKIT/displaydoc.asp?askitdocid=542&parentid=1).
What is a computer virus?
A virus is typically a short program designed to disperse copies of itself to
other computers and disrupt those computers' normal operations. A computer virus
usually attaches or inserts itself to or in a file or the boot sector of a disk
and is spread via floppy disks, networks, or on-line services. Although some
viruses are harmless, others can destroy or corrupt data or cause an operating
system or program to malfunction. A good defense is to make sure that you have the
latest version of an antivirus software program installed on your computer.
See a more detailed explanation on the
TrendMicro site (http://www.trendmicro.com/en/security/general/virus/overview.htm).
Important: it is nearly impossible for a virus to exist in the normal text
portion of an email. A virus can be carried within a file attached to an email,
but can only be spread by detaching the file and executing it or (if it
contains macros) opening it with an application that could execute the viral
macros.
If you receive an email containing a suspicious attachment from an unfamiliar
source you can contact your departmental
consultant (http://www.uwyo.edu/infotech/support/uclist.asp).
Email hoaxes
Occasionally you may receive a warning describing an email circulating on the
Internet that will erase your hard drive or otherwise destroy your computer. Email messages warning of viruses are often
hoaxes or misinformation. You cannot get a virus from an e-mail message
(in most cases) unless you
run an executable file attachment contained in the message, such as a Word file
(*.doc) or a program file (*.exe, *.vbs). Never open or execute a
suspicious email attachment.
See descriptions of virus myths and hoaxes at these sites:
trendmicro.com (http://www.trendmicro.com/vinfo/hoaxes/default.asp)
sophos.com
vmyths.com
www.f-secure.com/virus-info/hoax/
