Hello,

Viruses are constantly in the news, and it seems that they will always be with us. Today’s issue of NetDummy explores viruses – how they work, how to tell the real ones from the hoaxes, how to choose an antivirus product, and how to deal with the most common malicious code infection on the Internet today – Klez. Viruses are annoying but there are things you can do to keep your own computer safe and to avoid propagating viruses without knowing it. I hope you come across something you find helpful.

Resources
for Developers

Viruses Explained
Viruses are in the news almost constantly. New ones pop up almost every day, and everyone tells you that you have to watch out for them. You’re supposed to buy software to make sure that they don’t infect your computer. But what are viruses, really? How does antivirus software keep your computer safe, and how do viruses spread? Read the informative article from Tech TV to find the answers to these and other compelling questions!
Read the article at TechTV

CNET's antivirus guide 2002
You know all about viruses now, and you know you need some kind of software to protect your system. How do you choose? CNET’s guide to antivirus products could be just the ticket. Compare features and prices in the handy chart, complete with reviews. Find the software that’s right for you.
Read the article at CNET

Vmyths.com – Truth About Computer Security Hysteria
There’s nothing worse than a hoax email, except perhaps being the victim of one and perpetuating it. The next time you receive an email warning of the dire consequences to your computer if you open an email with a certain title or attachment, visit this site before you forward it along to your co-workers and family. Vmyths.com will help you separate the fact from the fiction. This helpful site also provides links about other types of hoaxes that circulate through the Internet on a regular basis. Don’t be a victim of a hoax – check with vmyths.com first.
VMyths.com

Featured Site

Klez Help Center
Speaking of viruses and worms, did you know that the Klez worm is the most common malicious code on the Internet? It spreads through email and it's easy to become an unwitting carrier, spreading it to everyone in your Windows address book! Have you received emails with titles like "a special humour game" or "a powful tool" or "spice girls vocal concert" (to name just a few variations)? If so, then you've been hit by the Klez worm. This helpful site will help you determine if you've been hit by Klez, and what to if your computer is infected.
About.com's Antivirus Software site

Hot Threads

A special funny game
This reader received an email that had all the classic traits of a Klez-infected email. There was no attachment, and a virus scan showed no trace of Klez on the computer. Is the poster's computer now infected? See what others have to say and offer your own opinion in the forum.
About.com Virus Discussion

Virus Solution: 5-1-25-40.exe aka. www.0190-dialer.com
Has porn bizarrely taken over your computer? Has your browser home page changed, and you don't know why? It could be the "porndial" virus - and it could try to make your modem dial 900 numbers. Fortunately there's an easy way to get rid of the problem, and avoid it, too.
TekTips Forum