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A new virus hits the internet almost daily. One, known as the Avril Lavigne virus, named after the Canadian singer frequently makes the rounds. She has nothing to do with this virus. Avril-A (Lirva) is pretty much your standard Windows worm. It spreads mainly as an infectious attachment within emails and takes advantage of an old exploit in Outlook that permits its execution without a user double clicking on an infected attachment. The worm also tries to disable AV and security software. This particular virus only affects Windows machines.

Since the beginning of the Internet, viruses have reared their ugly heads - it is inevitable and they are real (in some cases). However, there are things you can do to protect yourself from getting a computer virus and from spreading false rumors about a virus.

As a kid online, you need to be careful what you do, where you go and who you are getting E-mail from. Be sure your parents are aware where you surf online, and who you are getting E-mail from. Don't hide things on your computer that can potentially cause problems - and, please allow your parents to keep tabs on these things. It really is a benefit to everyone. If Mom or Dad aren't computer literate, be aware of the potential of a virus and what it can do - it could save you a lot of headaches.

Virus Protection Tips

    buggysm.gif - 1.1 K Always run any executable (.exe) file or E-mail attachment through your Virus Checker/Scanner prior to opening or executing the program.

    buggysm.gif - 1.1 K Update your virus detection programs frequently!! You need to stay on top of a new virus - if your checker doesn't have the new virus in its program it won't detect it. The two most common checkers are MCAFFEE and NORTON. If you use a different virus check program, go to the website of the program for updates. Try Guide Mary Landesman's Repair Centre if you can't find your virus checker upgrades.

    buggysm.gif - 1.1 KDon't accept files from people you don't know. Whether it is via chat, instant communicators or E-mail - it is not a good idea to open any file from a stranger.

    buggysm.gif - 1.1 KKeep up to date on virus information. The E-mail site at is a good place for news on E-mail viruses - for antivirus information and news visit's AntiVirus site.

    buggysm.gif - 1.1 KDon't spread false rumors!! It's not a good idea to post warnings on Bulletin Boards, send virus warnings via E-mail or talk about a virus in a kids chat UNLESS you know what you are talking about. Misinformation about a virus is almost as harmful as the real virus. Keep up to date and informed on the virus BEFORE you spread rumors about it.

    buggysm.gif - 1.1 KIf you think you could have virus on your computer - first, get off line. Then run your virus check program to see if it detects the virus. IF you do have a virus it will likely be named. You can then search out information on how to recover from the virus. Most can be fixed. Don't panic and try to fix something you don't know how to fix. Tell your parents, then get help if you have no idea what to do.

More Virus Information
Antivirus Encyclopdia - Guide Mary Landesman shares her knowledge of virus terms.

Computer Virus Myths - find out what is real and what is not at this excellent resource.

Microsoft Store

Topics | Computers