What is a computer virus really? The term virus is a generic term used to describe a piece of software, written and designed to replicate itself and pass itself on to another host. Viruses are sometimes combined with things like trojan horses and or worms to collect and report back sensitive data, destroy the way a machine works, or simply to deliver a message to an unsuspecting user.

"Successful" virus writers get their programs to distribute out to a large portion of the online community, causing chaos, loss of revenue, downtime and huge recovery expense. Why do these antisocial individuals feel the need to do these things? Well let us answer that by saying that it could be a number of reasons. Most of the time, it is to gain notoriety, the very thing that will eventually be their downfall and sometimes a huge consultants salary after their jail sentence.

Who is to rightly say what goes through these criminals collective mind. Sometimes it is
"I just wanna see if I can..."Or "wouldn't it be cool if we could..." other times it is a targeted

threat to the security of a specific company or the stability of the government. Regardless, it is the responsibility of everyone with Email, and access to it, to do their part to stop the threat of a virus spreading.

What can you do?

• Start by removing all names from your Email address book and create a simple html Email link page or word file with hyperlinks instead.
• Look for an attachment symbol before opening any Email and question it's origin.
• Ask individuals you deal with to call you as a courtesy before sending an attachment to you.
• Ask others to remove you from their address books and simply include a signature file which includes a reply Email address link that requires modification to send correctly. (this fights spam)
• Consult with Boston Systems & Solutions and roll out a formidable Anti-Virus plan as part of your overall security plan. Close open network doors.
• Educate yourself on the latest threats and how to protect yourself by visiting industry sites and subscribing to threat newsletters.