WARNING: Email Virus from club members

[Brandon]

I've received 3 virus-containing emails in the past 24 hours from club members. The subject lines are different each time. The 3 that I got read:

"Compressed"
"A IE 6.0 patch"
"W32.Elkern removal tools"

Don't open these emails! Also, be sure you have an updated anti-virus program installed, and if you use MS Outlook, either switch to a different email reader, or update Outlook.

See ya at the meeting tonight!

-Brandon

[LonnieS]

The most prevalent virus circulating right now is the Worm.Klez virus. The highest rated antivirus software out there is Trend Micro's PC Cillin.

http://www.antivirus.com

It's about $40 after tax, but well-worth the investment. Whoever sent those virus-infected emails are likely infected with the virus, and the .Klez virus can render your computer inoperable.

[Brandon]

Thanks Lonnie!

Do you think Outlook users should switch to something else? If so, what do you recommend?

[LonnieS]

Microsoft products are prime targets for hackers, and I hate to admit it, but I'm still a fan of them. Their features and capabilities outweigh the competition - but so do the flaws.

I've been using Linux and Netscape for a couple years, along side my Microsoft machines. I must admit, Linux and Netscape are consistently more stable, but they leave a lot to be desired as far as looks and capabilities. Nothing looks more hideous than this site viewed with Netscape 4.7 running on Linux.

If you want to keep the odds in your favor when it comes to viruses and hackers, AND say goodbye to all (or most) of the cool features - I'd suggest switching to Netscape, and either use Netscape’s built-in news reader (Netscape Messenger), or use Eudora. They are safer than any of Microsoft's mail readers.

Personally, I'd rather keep applying security patches and use a good antivirus program than switch web browsers or mail readers. But that's just me. Not everyone enjoys that hassle.

[Unknown_Authority]

I think I may have got sent another virus. This one I got from markd@northwestlegends.com named src.zip. I deleted the email and didn't open it. I wonder how this keeps happening?

[theJUDGE]

Guys,
I would definately say there's a virus because John, I have not sent you any Emails.
Houston, we gotta problem. >:(

[Unknown_Authority]

Yeah, I think they are actually sort of easy to spot. They usually have a silly title and have a .zip or .exe file attached and no message. I know better than to open those when I'm not expecting anything from anyone. I guess unless you are expecting something, be very carefull. Someone is infected that has the club email list. Lonnie? Mark? Who knows?

[LonnieS]

Okay, but there's a catch. As Brandon was aluding to, if you're using Outlook, or Outlook Express - with the "Preview Pane" - you're still screwed. (The preview pane allows you to view the email message, without having to actually open it.)

The .Klez virus is self-executing - if you are using the preview pane.

Every member in our club that has an email address should go to:

http://housecall.antivirus.com/housecall/start_corp.asp

and use the free online virus scanner. Even if you think you're clean.

[theJUDGE]

Thanks Lonnie,
I am heading there right now, just to make sure that I don't test Positive..... ;D