First, let me say that there is a fix to your problem.
Next. let me welcome you to our planet. In the last three weeks, the
MSBlaster and LoveSAN worm virus has been very much in the news. It has
been on every national news telecast, every newspaper in the country, in
Time and Newsweek, the talk shows, etc. You missed a very exciting time
while you were away.
Do a google search for MSBlaster and LoveSan. Even the Microsoft Update
page has a link to vital information.
1. Apply necessary windows patch.
2. Apply updates to OS.
3. Purchase and install a reputable Antivirus Program, and keep it updated.
4. Install a good firewall, such as the free Zonealarm
5. Pick up a newspaper once in awhile, turn on the tv or radio...I can't
imagine how anyone could be unaware of the worm . There are over 3,000
posts in this newsgroup alone. You didn't even bother scanning previous
posts.
6. You need to undertake a serious review of your computer security
practices. You have no firewall. You have no Antivirus, or if you do, it
has not been updated. You have not applied the necessary patches from
Microsoft to secure your computer against this worm.
7. You have infected all who are in your address book. Do the right thing
and inform them that you allowed yourself to be infected and that they need
to be aware of the fact that they are in your address book and are likely to
be infected unless they have better security practices than you do.
I know all this sounds a little harsh, but you need to be aware that having
a computer entails more than turning it on. It is because of individuals
like you that these viruses and worms spread so easily. By being on the
internet, you have a responsibility to be a good citizen, just like in the
real world. Poor security practices invite what happened to you, and now
you have unnecessarily inconvenienced others by spreading it through your
contacts. Unless you are willing to act responsibly and practice at least
minimal computer security skills, you should not be allowed to own a
computer. You have to maintain your vehicle to insure reasonable safety,
and your computer is no different. Good luck.
Bobby
