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Virus Information Library
CERT/CC Current Activity
Definitions
| Virus |
A
program or piece of code
that is loaded onto your computer without your
knowledge and runs against your wishes. Viruses
can also replicate themselves. All computer
viruses are manmade. A simple virus that can
make a copy
of itself over and over again is relatively easy
to produce. Even such a simple virus is
dangerous because it will quickly use all
available memory
and bring the system
to a halt. An even more dangerous type of virus
is one capable of transmitting itself across networks
and bypassing security
systems. |
| Trojan
Horse |
A
destructive program
that masquerades as a benign application. Unlike
viruses,
Trojan horses do not replicate themselves but
they can be just as destructive. One of the most
insidious types of Trojan horse is a program
that claims to rid your computer of viruses but
instead introduces viruses onto your computer. |
| Worm |
A
program or algorithm
that replicates itself over a computer network
and usually performs malicious actions, such as
using up the computer's resources and possibly
shutting the system down. |
Top AntiVirus Software
Sites
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Free
Online Virus Scanners
Several online
scanners were tested by AV-Test.org
for detection of In-the-Wild (ItW) viruses. Of these,
only BitDefender, RAV, Panda, Trend, and McAfee achieved
100% ItW detection. Command Software, Symantec, Hauri, and
MKS_Vir did not. Each of the following online scanners are
considered best-of-breed and can offer important adjunct
protection.
1) McAfee
FreeScan
McAfee FreeScan achieved 100% during the standard ItW
tests, 91.67% archives, 84.62% compressed, 100% on
password protected DOC/XLS files, but only 64.71% of
embedded OLE objects. McAfee is the only online scanner in
the Top Picks to require formal registration prior to use.
2) Trend
Housecall
Trend Micro's Housecall scored 100% detection for ItW
threats, 100% in detection of viruses contained in
embedded OLE objects and password protected DOC and XLS
files, 38.46% of compressed files and 75% of archives.
Housecall is one of the easiest products and fastest of
the online scanners and provides virus tracking data as
well.
Manufacturer's
Site
3) BitDefender
Online Virus Scan
While BitDefender was able to scan an impressive 100% of
password protected DOC and XLS files, their detection rate
was only 35.29% when attempting to detect viral embedded
objects in non-password protected DOC/XLS files. Though no
information is requested, users are required to accept a
lengthy licensing agreement.
Manufacturer's
Site
4) RAV
AntiVirus Scan Online
A clean interface, no required registration, and fast scan
speed make RAV AntiVirus Scan Online a top notch scanner.
RAV was also one of the best when it came to detecting AV-Test.org's
compressed viruses, achieving 76.92%, second only to
McAfee's 85.62%. The combination of solid detection and
ease-of-use place this online scanner at the head of the
pack.
Manufacturer's
Site
5) Panda's
ActiveScan
Panda's ActiveScan is fast and easy to use, but it's
difficult to find on their site so unless you're accessing
it via a bookmark or this review, it may not be the best
choice. Unlike first choice Housecall, an email address
and geographical location are mandatory.
Manufacturer's
Site
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