August 18th, 2003 What a wonderful welcome home gift (just getting back from England and Ireland vacation) -  the new blaster virus (otherwise know as W32.Blaster.Worm, W32/Lovsan.worm, WORM_MSBLAST.A, Win32.Poza) I've laid out the information you need to tackle this problem virus/worm. If any of this is too complicated and you need our assistance in fixing it via phone, remote or on-site support, don't hesitate to call (408.732.8500) or email http://www.itmcomputing.com/contact_computer.php as many of you have already. We're happy to assist. Who should worry about this virus? Anyone with the following operating systems: Windows 2000, Windows XP, (possibly Windows NT as well) No need to worry if you have: Linux, Macintosh, OS/2, UNIX, Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows Me How can I find my operating system? Easiest way, right click on '"My Computer'" on your desktop and choose Properties. Under "System" it will tell you. What is a big indication I have virus? Your system will start and re-start on its own. Is it true, I can get this virus without opening an email attachment? Yes, this virus (officially called a worm), spreads through vulnerabilities in aforementioned Windows operating systems. If I don't have the virus, how can I protect myself? 1. Patch your system from the Microsoft website: Once the Microsoft.com website is back up and running (it's down early Friday morning), go here to download patch for your operating system: Click here 2. Update your anti-virus program. 3. Run a full system scan of computer. If I believe I have the virus, what should I do? 1. Run the Symantec removal tool Click here 2. Patch your system from the Microsoft website: Once the Microsoft.com website is back up and running (it's down early Friday morning), go here to download patch for your operating system: Click here 3. Update your anti-virus program. 4. Run a full system scan of computer. Could I have prevented getting this (and most other viruses/worms)? Yes, by doing Windows Updates when they come up (once week) and keeping virus protection up-to-date. To read more about this worm, go to one of these sites: Click here Click here Click here ************************ Hope you enjoyed the ride.... Clyde Lerner, In The Moment Computing Phone: 408.732.8500 E-mail comments/feedback to: http://www.itmcomputing.com/contact_computer.php This newsletter is a service of In The Moment Computing and is Copyright 2005 Clyde Lerner. All worldwide rights reserved. If forwarding, please forward all of e-mail, not any portion therein. To see past issues of This and That Computer Tips newsletter, please visit the web at: http://www.itmcomputing.com/newsletter.php and click on "Archives." Please note: Unless requested, questions pertaining to this newsletter will be answered in a 3-4 week time frame. If you need a faster response, there will be a small consultation fee of $15 per e-mail response. You will receive a reply within 48 hours. "Complete Computer Help (Networks, New Computer Installs, Software Training) for Individuals and Small Businesses" "Designing your Perfect Website, at an Affordable Cost, in a Timely Manner" Eliminate and Destroy unwanted email: http://spamarrest.com/affl?1337207 Send a greeting card through the Internet so recipient gets card in their postal mailbox: www.sendoutcards.com/7197 - let me walk you through how to send a card - it's easy. ©2003 In The Moment (ITM) Computing. All rights reserved.