"i've been reading about code red and i find it impossible or at least very unlikely you've been hit by it, as it only affects NT and 2000, not ME. i've got ME and i dont think i've gut it (GULP
)"
Hiyas,
Always keep in mind, where a virus is concerned, that a person having the source code can modify that source to not only change the bugs behavior, but also slide it right past a bug catcher. This is refered to as a different strain of the virus.
Bug catchers work, in general, by comparing internal patterns in a given file to their own list of such 'signatures'. If there is no match, then its not a bug, as far as the bug catcher is concerned (there are exceptions of course for bug catchers that also monitor a files activity.)
With the bug source code, its simple to change this signature. This can even be done via a reverse compile (disassembly), modification, and recompile of a given bug.
So the bug catcher is only as good as its 'signature', or definition list. Its important to keep that as current as possible.
However, proper caution and common sense are always ones best method of avoiding such things, which can sometimes be disastarous. Most of these recent critters are transmitted via email as attachments.
Prevention is simple and obvious. Don't 'run' said attachment. Even if it appears sent by a friend. The friend may also be affected and most bugs are born pregnant and transparently send themselves to others without the infected person even knowing.
If a file is suspicious, and doesn't trigger ur bug catcher, it could still be a bug. The only way to know is either run it (real bad idea), wait for an update to ur bug definition table (hard to tell when that may happen, tho usually its pretty fast), or by manually ripping the thing apart and seeing how it works. I normally use the last method, as its fun and very educational.
If uncomfortable playin with bugs, consult someone who is. Its actually quite safe once one knows which end the 'stinger' is on, especially if you pull their little legs & wings off first.
