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Q.
What's the difference between a virus and a virus hoax?
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A.
A virus will actually do harm to your system -- delete or corrupt files, or even erase your hard drive.
A virus hoax, on the other hand, is nothing more than Chicken Little screaming that the sky is falling.
And on the other, other hand, even a virus hoax can cause damage when people believe it. See the SULFNBK.EXE hoax for evidence.
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Q.
I just received a letter warning me about a virus and I know this one is true. Can I pass it on?
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A.
No, because it's not true. Okay, maybe it is, but it's not. I have NEVER EVER received a real virus warning in email -- or if I have it's localized, such as from my office. And the big hint is, a real virus warning doesn't ask you to pass it on to anyone. Just say no!
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Q.
I have a Macintosh. Is it true that I don't have to worry about viruses?
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A.
Nope, it's not true. You don't have to worry as much, but there are Mac-based viruses out there. Your chances of staying virus-free are much better as a Mac owner, though. (And, you're a much better human being, too.)
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Q.
What's so wrong with warning your friends about something that might be true?
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A.
It's not true. Okay, it might be, but it's not. The only thing you do when you forward those warnings (brace yourself, I'm going to be brutal) is to clog up the internet mail system and show how gullible you are.
Okay, gullible might be too strong. Let's say naive. You show yourself to be a newbie (someone new to the internet). But don't worry, being a newbie isn't all bad, and besides, you'll grow out of it.
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Q.
Isn't this site just a scam so you can sell anti-virus software to people?
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A.
Mom, I told you to leave me alone!
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