On Sun, 13 Apr 1997 Trmgafun@aol.com wrote:
> In a message dated 97-04-13 07:56:54 EDT, you write:
>
> << >I understand everyones concern over virus's, but it has always been my
> understasnding that a virus can only be bassed on through an executable
> file, such as one that ends in "exe" or "com". Additionally the file the
> virus is attached to must be "run" for the virus to execute. I think we
> have been through this before on the list, not to say we should be prudent
> but I don't believe that a virus can be passed on in the this way. Any
> thoughts? Of course I will delete said message just in case......
> >>
> This may be my ignorance, but what if the message has an attachment that is
> downloaded or the mail is downloaded in a mail file onto your hard drive??
Still no problem. If the attachment is an executable binary, it can't do
any damage unless you execute it. If the attachment is a Word document
infected with a Macro virus, it won't do any damage unless you open it
with Word.
Never accept file attachments from strangers (didn't your mother teach you
that? <grin>). If you didn't ask for it, and you don't know the sender,
either trash it or be sure you have good anti-virus software.
Some PC and Mac based mail programs can be configured to automatically
decode (unzip, unstuff, or whatever) file attachments. Some can even be
configured to automatically run or open files received at attachments.
NOT A GOOD IDEA! Turn off those automatic features so you, not your
software, are in control. That way you can decide what to do with
attachments.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Chip Old 1948 M.G. TC TC6710 NEMGTR #2271
Cub Hill, Maryland 1962 Triumph TR4 CT3154LO (daily driver)
fold@mail.bcpl.lib.md.us
If cars had evolved as fast as computers have, by now they'd cost a
quarter, run for a year on a half-gallon of gas, and explode once a day.
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