[DOUG G]

Geeks On Call® Security Alert
E-MAIL THREAT EVADES ANTIVIRUS PROGRAMS

Problem: Virus-infected e-mail attachments ending with the extension “.rar” are slipping past antivirus scanners, causing computer users to assume the files are safe to open.

Solution: Do not open e-mail attachments ending with a “.rar” extension and do not open any e-mail attachments you are not expecting to receive, even if they were sent from a friend or loved one. Use trusted antivirus software and make sure it has been updated with the latest antivirus definitions.


February 2, 2005
Computer viruses have found a new method of infection: hiding inside “.rar” files attached to e-mails. A .rar is a type of digital container often used to compress and transmit large music and video files. Because .rar files have seldom been used in the past as carriers of viruses, many popular antivirus programs are not programmed to automatically search and block infected .rar e-mail attachments.

Geeks On Call® strongly urges you not to open any e-mail attachments unless you are expecting to receive them and unless you are 100% positive the attachments are safe. If you are uncertain whether or not a friend or loved one intentionally sent you an attachment, simply call him/her or send an e-mail inquiry. The possibility exists that his/her computer is infected with a virus or worm that has sent copies of itself to each e-mail address found on the computer.

The best way to ensure the privacy of the files, credit card numbers, financial statements, and other sensitive data stored on your computer is to patch the holes in Windows by visiting the Windows Update website; use a trusted antivirus program and download the latest antivirus definitions; and use a software and/or hardware firewall to make your computer invisible to hackers while you use the Internet.

If you suspect your computer has been infected by a virus, worm, or spyware, you can have a certified Geeks On Call® technician visit your home or business by calling 1-800-905-GEEK.

For additional information about antivirus software and firewalls, please read the back issues of our customer newsletter, “Geek-Speak!” which can be found on our website: www.geeksoncall.com.

Go Back




Copyright © Geeks On Call America, Inc.
Geeks On Call® franchises are independently owned and operated.

[camaroman7d]

Thanks for the heads up. Seems like there's a new one every day.

[camaro man]

Doug G, What's the symptoms of this virus?

[DOUG G]

No idea... I didn't get hit.

[383]

My rule of thumb:..... Be suspicious of EVERYTHING.

[DOUG G]

Funny thing was not too long after getting a notice I got an e-mail from my screen name but .aol (I'm on MSN) and my virus scanner caught it. Another rule of thumb...always update.