Dear List Members, -------------------------------------------------- PLEASE DO NOT RESPOND TO THIS MESSAGE ON THE LIST! --> First, be aware that NO VIRUS IS EVER SENT TO YOU FROM ROOTSWEB. Sometimes, it may seem like that has happened, because some of the viruses falsify their "From" lines. The "plain text" and "no attachments" rules pretty much eliminate the possibility, which means we can continue to exchange messages ONLINE (i.e., through this mailing list) with no fear of infestation. --> Second, the most common way to receive a virus is by opening an attachment. We used to say, "Don't open any .exe files," but this latest bunch often masquerades as some other extension. So, the first rule of prevention is NEVER to open an attachment which comes unsolicited, even if the "From" line is that of someone with whom you are acquainted. --> Third, it is absolutely essential that we all arm ourselves with some form of anti-virus protection. Most of this current bunch have been aimed at the PC users, but the Mac is not entirely exempt, and should also be protected. Further, this protection needs to be updated frequently; perhaps once or twice a week, at least. Badtrans, Magistr, Hybris 95, and W32/Hello.worm are the most recently seen examples being reported to the RootsWeb Listowners. You can read more about them, and get protection, from the following sources: McAfee http://vil.mcafee.com/ Norton/Symantec http://www.symantec.com/avcenter/index.html It's easy to get an analysis and identification on these viruses. Just forward the email with a suspected virus attachment to virus_research@nai.com NOte: Paul's virus, Badtrans, came from a PERSON, not our rootsweb list. Margaret