Sites of Interest
Search
Resources
|
|
Text Only
Sites of Interest Search Resources |
|
|
|
|
Viruses of any sort are a concern and a serious problem. Most recently macro viruses have become of great concern because of the ease by which they are transferred and replicated. Macro viruses are written in the macro language of an application which in many cases is a very powerful language. These macro viruses can then be attached to a word processing document or a spreadsheet. When the infected file is opened, the virus is activated and begins to do its damage. These viruses in many cases are self-replicating which means once you have opened an infected document, the documents created from that particular document will become infected. Microsoft Office offers a powerful macro language that is used to automate and customize applications. This leaves Office products open to infection and the writing of macro viruses. Macro viruses are not limited to just word processing documents. Excel has a macro language which makes it a target for macro viruses. Even the new Powerpoint 97, which offers macro capability, has a macro scanner built right into the product to protect against macro viruses. Vast amounts of information has been written about macro viruses. Rather than trying to re-write the information a list has been put together to guide you to several World Wide Web sites that have extensive information regarding Macro viruses. Please understand that macro viruses are not just a problem for Microsoft but that they are a problem for any program which offers an advanced macro language. All computer users should be aware of the risk of macro viruses and the steps that can be taken to prevent infection. Be extra careful about opening files created by other users. Be especially cautious about files that have been sent to you via e-mail. Who created the file? Why did you receive it? What does it contain? If you are uncertain at all....consider not opening it. Also be cautious about documents or templates downloaded from the Internet. In general, be cautious about files you receive. Consider using a good virus scanning program. If you would like any help or assistance regarding various virus protection programs, contact Academic Computing. Macro Virus Information Sites
NOTE:
UW Oshkosh Webmaster URL: http://www.acs.uwosh.edu/documentation/virus/macro_virus.shtml Last updated: Monday, December 18, 2000 - 12:59 PM |