I do not remember a case where RootsWeb has ever sent out a virus warning
before, and they are very expressly discouraged on any RootsWeb list for
very good reason. However, there is currently one going around called
"Klez" that is causing some real problems and RootsWeb has sent information
out to a massive number of people as a result of it.
I am not a computer technician, nor am I qualified to advise you very much
on the subject, but I am forwarding the message to all of my surname lists
in the hopes that it will prevent some of you from getting caught by this
"worm," if you have not already received it. PLEASE, be forewarned and
beware.
Following is the information put out by RootsWeb:
KLEZ WORM WIGGLES ACROSS THE NET. No,
RootsWeb.com is not sending
you a virus or worm in an attachment -- no matter what these "forged"
addresses with RootsWeb name in it say. Be sure your anti-virus software
is up-to-date and that you use it. Never open any e-mail attachments
unless you have confirmed with the sender that she or he did indeed send
it to you for a reason. Do not assume that the attachment came from
where it says -- these sophisticated worms are able to forge addresses
and they are fooling lots of people. Some even claim to be "worm removal
tools." Don't believe them.
The Klez worm has been able to spread because of a security
vulnerability in Microsoft Internet Explorer (browser) and because many
people do not update their browser and download these patches. Don't
risk the loss of your personal and genealogical data: Update your
browser now: [2-line URL]:
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/ie/downloads/critical/
q290108/default.asp/
Most antivirus vendors, such as Symantec, McAfee and Sophos, offer Klez
patches. Is your computer virus free? Find out at:
http://housecall.antivirus.com/pc_housecall/
Previously published in RootsWeb
Review: Vol. 5, No. 17, 24 April 2002
David E. Cann
decann(a)infi.net
Administrator of the Cann, Cashatt, Markley, Redkey & Schottler
mailing lists and message boards on RootsWeb