Active Virus - Trojan - Worm Removal

The term virus is often used as a generic reference to any malicious code that is not, in fact, a true computer virus.  This page discusses viruses, Trojans, worms, and hoaxes and ways to prevent them.

If you're not sure if there are current troubles on your system, please click the link to the right for a FREE on-line viral scan.  (scan requires Internet Explorer 5.0 or above)

So, what is a virus?  A computer virus is a small program written to alter the way a computer operates, without the permission or knowledge of the user.  A virus must meet two criteria:

It must execute itself, and it must replicate itself.  For example, it may replace other executable files with a copy of the virus infected file.  Viruses can infect desktop computers and network servers alike.

Some viruses are programmed to damage the computer by damaging programs, deleting files, or reformatting the hard disk.  Others are not designed to do any damage, but simply to replicate themselves and make their presence known by presenting text, video, and audio messages.  Even these benign viruses can create problems for the computer user.  They typically take up computer memory used by legitimate programs.  As a result, they often cause erratic behavior and can result in system crashes.  In addition, many viruses are bug-ridden, and these bugs may lead to system crashes and data loss.

Then, what is a Trojan horse?  Trojan horse viruses are impostors - files that claim to be something desirable but are quite malicious.  An important distinction between a trojan horse and a true virus is that the trojans do not replicate themselves.  Trojans contain malicious code that when triggered cause loss, or even theft, of data.

How is that different if it says I'm infected with a worm?  Worms are programs that replicate themselves from computer system to computer system.  In contrast to viruses, which requires the spreading of an infected file.  Although worms generally exist inside of other files, often Word or Excel documents.  The entire document will travel from computer to computer, so the entire document should be considered the worm.

What is safe computing?  With all the hype, it is easy to believe that viruses lurk in every file, every email, every Web site.  However, a few basic precautions can minimize your risk of infection.  Practice safe computing and encourage everyone you know to do so as well.

Back up your data frequently.  Keep the (write protected) media in a safe place - preferably in a different location than your computer.  Do not leave a floppy disk in the floppy disk drive when you shut down or restart the computer.

Write-protect your floppy disks after you have finished writing to them.  Be suspicious of email attachments from unknown sources.  Verify that attachments have been sent by the author of the email.  Newer viruses can send email messages that appear to be from people you know.  Do not set your email program to "auto-run" attachments.  Obtain all Microsoft security updates.

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