Do not pass on Virus Hoaxes

Although there are thousands of viruses discovered each year, there are still some that only exist in the imaginations of the public and the press – known as virus hoaxes. These viruses hoaxes DO NOT EXIST, despite rumor of their creation and distribution.

Please ignore any messages regarding these supposed “viruses” and DO NOT pass on any messages about them. Send them to ITSC to be dealt with. Passing on messages about these hoaxes only serves to further propagate them.

The following web sites provide very good information on virus hoaxes:

• Data Fellows AntiVirus hoax warnings page
• McAfee.com Virus Hoax
• HoaxBusters of CIAC
• Sophos describes hoaxes and scares
• Symantec Security Updates about Virus Hoaxes
• Trend Micro Hoax Encyclopedia
• Vmyths.com about Virus Myths and Hoaxes