New viruses are being discovered daily.  It is vitally important to have good antivirus software installed and up to date.  Most of the latest versions of antivirus software automatically download new virus definitions as they become available, but even with good antivirus software, it is important to exercise caution and common sense.  Remember that just because an email comes to you from a known source does not mean that it is safe to open an attached file.  Most  worms propagate by sending  themselves to everyone in the infected computer's address book, so it stands to reason that most viruses will come to you from someone you know.  In most cases, they are not even aware of the fact that their computer is infected.  The best rule to follow is never open an attachment unless you know what it is or have at least scanned it using an up-to-date antivirus software program.

It is also important to be cautious about forwarding virus warnings which are actually hoaxes.  While a hoax does not infect systems like a virus does, they are time consuming and are not always harmless.  In some cases, such as the SULFNBK.EXE and Jdbgmgr.exe hoaxes , people have been duped into deleting a file that was actually part of the Windows operating system.  Another danger is that repeated hoax warnings may cause some users to disregard all warnings, leaving themselves at risk from a real virus threat.  If you feel you must warn someone about a virus, rather than forward an email you received from uncle Joe, provide them with a link to an article on one of the web sites listed on this page.  If the virus threat is real, you will find some information on their web site about it.

Finally, on this page you will also find links to pages that debunk those hoaxes you receive by email from well-meaning friends and relatives.  You know, those heart-rending stories about little girls who are dying  and those terrifying tales of HIV infected needles being hidden in gasoline pump handles, theater cushions, and  coin return slots.    Did you receive an email telling you that the FCC is considering a ban on all religious broadcasting ?  It isn't true.  Neither is the one about the United States Postal Service trying to sneak a bill through Congress charging you 5¢ for every email you send?  A good rule to follow is, if they ask you to forward it to everyone in your address book, don't!

Listed below are some reliable resources which you can use to determine if a virus warning is legitimate.  Also listed are some links to email newsletters to which you can subscribe at no cost which will keep you informed about current viruses and hoaxes.

Virus News by Email