That message about a dangerous virus sounded like important info to share. You did what it said and deleted the virus, but now your computer is doing funny things! What happened?

Here's what happens with a virus hoax. With a recent example, someone sends you a message saying that you can stop a nasty virus by deleting "sulfnbk.exe" from your computer. You delete the file and tell all of your friends to do the same thing, who pass it on to more friends, ... but that's a valid Windows file!

A prankster just convinced you to mangle your own system!

Don't believe everything you read! If you see a virus warning, check it out first. If you pass on a hoax, then you're part of the problem!!

• VMyths: web site about computer myths and hoaxes.
• McAffee hoax page : List and explanations of known hoaxes.
• Virus Bulletin Hoax page : Lists and explains known hoaxes as well as provides links to other hoax info pages.
• Stiller Research hoax page : A very extensive list of hoaxes.
• Sophos hoax page : Another good list.
• CERT hoax info : Part of CERT from Carnegie Mellon University.

Also, these sites show all known virii, real or hoax:

• Symantec virus list : Extensive list with in-depth descriptions.