Computer Virus alert.

[Tony]

Can someone check this out?
I have just received two warnings. Is this virus current?


VIRUS COMING !
Hi All,
I checked with Norton Anti-Virus, and they are gearing up for this
Virus!
I checked Snopes, and it is for real. Get this E-mail message sent
Around to your contacts ASAP.
PLEASE FORWARD THIS WARNING AMONG FRIENDS, FAMILY AND CONTACTS!
You should be alert during the next few days. Do not open any message
With an attachment entitled POSTCARD FROM HALLMARK, regardless who sent
It to you. It is a virus which opens A POSTCARD IMAGE, which 'burns' the
Whole hard disc C of your computer.
This virus will be received from someone who has your e-mail address in
His/her contact list. This is the reason why you need to send this
E-mail to all your contacts. It is better to receive this
Message 25 times than to receive the virus and open it.
If you receive a mail called' POSTCARD,' even though sent to you by a
Friend, do not open it! Shut down your computer immediately. This is the
Worst virus announced by CNN.
It has been classified by Microsoft as the most destructive virus ever.
This virus was discovered by McAfee yesterday, and there is no repair
yet for this kind of virus. This virus simply destroys the
Zero Sector of the Hard Disc, where the vital information is
kept.
COPY THIS E-MAIL, AND SEND IT TO YOUR FRIENDS.
REMEMBER: IF YOU SEND IT TO THEM, YOU WILL BENEFIT ALL OF US
=============

All the best,
Tony

[darren]

Appears to be a hoax,from what i can see.

I wouldn't worry too much,just don't open anything you don't trust.

[Tony]

Appears to be a hoax,from what i can see.

I wouldn't worry too much,just don't open anything you don't trust.

Could you explain how it is a hoax?
There will be others wondering.

[darren]

Sure,i typed POSTCARD FROM HALLMARK into google and come up with a load of links saying that it is a hoax which is a few years old.

Hear's a couple of links_ http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=POSTCARD%20FROM%20HALLMARK&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CCcQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Furbanlegends.about.com%2Flibrary%2Fbl_postcard_virus.htm&ei=4BcIT-qfK8qu8AOy8L3FCA&usg=AFQjCNGOPVb7D8qRHv7Y-arBYNdRSpACWQ

http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=POSTCARD%20FROM%20HALLMARK&source=web&cd=5&ved=0CEMQFjAE&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hoax-slayer.com%2Fpostcard-virus-hoax.shtml&ei=4BcIT-qfK8qu8AOy8L3FCA&usg=AFQjCNEZvGHo2iPtSjuqYJtJQZ3Z9mSwsw

http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=POSTCARD%20FROM%20HALLMARK%20&source=web&cd=9&ved=0CGcQFjAI&url=http%3A%2F%2Fkeepsafeonthenet.co.uk%2F2008%2F11%2Fpostcard-from-hallmark%2F&ei=xhkIT_STJoWn8gPbg8yzAQ&usg=AFQjCNHYX0P2DJ7GnR4RknNIa3jRGMLWkA

I think if this was a genuine virus,that could do what it says it can do,then EVERYONE would be on to it.This is the first i have heard of this.

[pickle]

I agree Darren, it would over the MSM like a rash if it were true.... but thanks for the heads up Tony!

[kersley]

Thanks Tony..
If you need to send me a postcard, can you send it the old fashion way? Via our lovely postman..

[DarMar]

it is fake cause of this :
This is the reason why you need to send this E-mail to all your contacts.

it is chainmail, like all those send more mails to more people so someone can have really big list of mails in easy way and without too much bots.
bot - some small program that does repetitive tasks for user in this case isnt needed much.
they share that mails and thats exactly how spammers gets your email adress, nothing more, nothing less.

In other case, i had a friend which worked for famous Norton. The real truth is: the only virus developers are employed by Norton or Eset or similar companyes. If there were no virus, why would you have antivirus installed? who and why would buy antivirus at all? So how than to scan all your discs and send reports in easy way? :)

Does this reminds you of pharmacy and medical institutions? It is well known trick to sell things and make use of non informed people.

Windows is only OS out there thats woulnerable by all kinda range of viruses. Cause of nature of my job i have at home Windows, Mac, Linux and Irix machines.. and none except windows had any kind of problems.
For Win. machines tho is enough to open web browser and here ya go computer is full of malicious software and malicious trackers. Which are developed by antivirus companies so they can sell more stuff.

So this mail is only for collecting e-mail adresses purpose.

[ghostrider]

watchout for vista 2012 security is a killer virus that killed my laptop. don't open it. it's a scam.

[GaelVictor]

VIRUS COMING !
Hi All,
I checked with Norton Anti-Virus, and they are gearing up for this
Virus!
I checked Snopes, and it is for real. Get this E-mail message sent
Around to your contacts ASAP.
PLEASE FORWARD THIS WARNING AMONG FRIENDS, FAMILY AND CONTACTS!
You should be alert during the next few days. Do not open any message
With an attachment entitled POSTCARD FROM HALLMARK, regardless who sent
It to you. It is a virus which opens A POSTCARD IMAGE, which 'burns' the
Whole hard disc C of your computer.
This virus will be received from someone who has your e-mail address in
His/her contact list. This is the reason why you need to send this
E-mail to all your contacts. It is better to receive this
Message 25 times than to receive the virus and open it.
If you receive a mail called' POSTCARD,' even though sent to you by a
Friend, do not open it! Shut down your computer immediately. This is the
Worst virus announced by CNN.
It has been classified by Microsoft as the most destructive virus ever.
This virus was discovered by McAfee yesterday, and there is no repair
yet for this kind of virus. This virus simply destroys the
Zero Sector of the Hard Disc, where the vital information is
kept.
COPY THIS E-MAIL, AND SEND IT TO YOUR FRIENDS.
REMEMBER: IF YOU SEND IT TO THEM, YOU WILL BENEFIT ALL OF US
=============

All the best,
Tony

This message will self-destruct in five seconds!

destruction imminent!!

This is no fear porn attempt either! KA-BOOM!!!

[Alan]

http://www.snopes.com/computer/virus/postcard.asp

[Midnight Rambler]

I checked with Norton Anti-Virus, and they are gearing up for this Virus!

My eye happen to fall on this information. Symantic makes code for Norton Anti-virus as well.


Symantec: parts of antivirus source code exposed


(Reuters) - Symantec Corp, the top maker of security software, said hackers had exposed a chunk of its source code, which is essentially the blueprint for its products, potentially giving rivals some insight into the company's technology.

Source (http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/01/06/us-symantec-code-idUSTRE80523W20120106)

[jagman]

Thanks, for the warning, I don't want anything happening to this baby. I spent 2 hours cleaning and defraging yesterday

[SEAM]

There is definately something new out there that is creating problems. I have McAfee, and it is so so, but fairly reliable, and always up to date. In the last couple days, I have gone to a site to read a John Lear thread, and twice now, my system freezes and tells me to download "WINDOWS 7 SUCURITY UPDATE". During this message, I can't open email, or file view, or anything that uses Explorer, without getting the same message.. like a dire warning - "You must download this to fix your system". Instead, I do a restore from previous working configuration, and it goes away... but, I've never seen this one before... Here it is... BEWARE, AND READ THIS SITE FOR YOUR OWN PROTECTION - http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/virus-removal/remove-win-7-security-2012

So Pie'n'eal - you are correct in that there is something bad going on... just maybe off focus a bit.. but thanks for the conversation, as it made me look this critter up.

[Bryn ap Gwilym]

Another good reason to get rid of the govt [sic] spyware operating system & install a GNU (http://www.gnu.org/) os

[seko]

Time to get a Mac from Steve jobs and forget about Windows:smash:

[Bryn ap Gwilym]

Time to get a Mac from Steve jobs and forget about Windows:smash:

Na. Apple is Proprietary software = spyware.

[SEAM]

Here is some more.. This one is ugly folks... I am buttoned up tight.. Firewall, daily virus scan, et al... but it got through.. DO NOT assume Win7 will fix, as Win7 doesn't have a virus protect.

http://www.google.com/#sclient=psy-ab&hl=en&rlz=1R2WZPC_enUS426&source=hp&q=Win+7+Security+2012+&rlz=1R2WZPC_enUS426&pbx=1&oq=Win+7+Security+2012+&aq=f&aqi=g4&aql=&gs_sm=s&gs_upl=0l0l2l19609l0l0l0l0l0l0l0l0ll0l0&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.,cf.osb&fp=cb5f4aec6a892e36&biw=1280&bih=572

[seko]

I have had my Mac for 6 years and no virus in my computer ever, never bought any spyware, just saying.

[SEAM]

I have had my Mac for 6 years and no virus in my computer ever, never bought any spyware, just saying.

Same here... For Home use... but not at work...

Now I must wonder - Why John Lear? Who could possibly be pissed at JL? and decide to plant a booby trap in front of him? bastards!!

[Ivanhoe]

I use Kaspersky Anti-virus. Haven't had any issues since I installed it 4 years ago.
But as with anything, use your own best judgement.

[Lochinvar]

Time to get a Mac from Steve jobs and forget about Windows:smash:

Na. Apple is Proprietary software = spyware.

Another good post brother.

Why would people come to a website like this if they are supporters of the eugenicist that is Bill Gates (whose father was in OSS)?

Linux am byth!

[wolf_rt]

I would recommend having all your important data backed up onto an external HDD that is left UNPLUGGED from your pc... these are cheap, and as a benefit allow you to easily share with friends.

All your REALLY important data should also be backed up onto CD\DVD also, as these are safe from EMF disturbances. although you may struggle to find a pc that works after a CME event or whatever.

As an aside...this virus would have ZERO effect on me, as i always run a small (200gb) c: that is for program files only... all data is kept on a different physical drive.. this improves computer speed as well as security.
It is worth making an 'Image' of your C: after a fresh windows install (after you do the drivers/programs you always use) then it is a matter of about 30 min to get you system back online after windows dies/you get a virus.

If i wasn't a PC gamer.. i would defiantly run Linux... I hear it is quite user friendly these days.

[lysander]

part of Nortons source code has been compromised, not sure of the details, but would be a possible reason for unusual behaviour, and increase in alerts


Can someone check this out?
I have just received two warnings. Is this virus current?


VIRUS COMING !
Hi All,
I checked with Norton Anti-Virus, and they are gearing up for this
Virus!
I checked Snopes, and it is for real. Get this E-mail message sent
Around to your contacts ASAP.
PLEASE FORWARD THIS WARNING AMONG FRIENDS, FAMILY AND CONTACTS!
You should be alert during the next few days. Do not open any message
With an attachment entitled POSTCARD FROM HALLMARK, regardless who sent
It to you. It is a virus which opens A POSTCARD IMAGE, which 'burns' the
Whole hard disc C of your computer.
This virus will be received from someone who has your e-mail address in
His/her contact list. This is the reason why you need to send this
E-mail to all your contacts. It is better to receive this
Message 25 times than to receive the virus and open it.
If you receive a mail called' POSTCARD,' even though sent to you by a
Friend, do not open it! Shut down your computer immediately. This is the
Worst virus announced by CNN.
It has been classified by Microsoft as the most destructive virus ever.
This virus was discovered by McAfee yesterday, and there is no repair
yet for this kind of virus. This virus simply destroys the
Zero Sector of the Hard Disc, where the vital information is
kept.
COPY THIS E-MAIL, AND SEND IT TO YOUR FRIENDS.
REMEMBER: IF YOU SEND IT TO THEM, YOU WILL BENEFIT ALL OF US
=============

All the best,
Tony

[DeDukshyn]

Eliminating viruses for Windows is like eliminating cancer. Sure it can be done, but to do so means all the massive security companies, will put themselves out of work - so it will never happen, just like the main producer of animal feed for Big Agra is a Pfizer subsidiary that puts arsenic into the foodchain to keep Pfizer's multi - billion dollar cancer treatment drug business booming. Same story with computer viruses - if they go away so do many massive corporations - who has an agenda to keep the fear of computer viruses high? Not some kid with a virus kit - that's for sure.

[Lochinvar]

Eliminating viruses for Windows is like eliminating cancer. Sure it can be done, but to do so means all the massive security companies, will put themselves out of work - so it will never happen, just like the main producer of animal feed for Big Agra is a Pfizer subsidiary that puts arsenic into the foodchain to keep Pfizer's multi - billion dollar cancer treatment drug business booming. Same story with computer viruses - if they go away so do many massive corporations - who has an agenda to keep the fear of computer viruses high? Not some kid with a virus kit - that's for sure.

Indeed. Kaspersky, Norton, AVG, Symantec. What next? Gambini?

[Bryn ap Gwilym]

There is one way to eliminate the threat of viruses & spyware once & for all.
Stop buying m/soft products.
If folk think they are also safe using apple products may I suggest you research about what proprietary software really is.

Folk scream that they are "awake" yet they continually complain about what is going on around them. Folk are funding the very corrupt system that is responsible for all this mess. Indirectly, folk who fund the corporate monster are the ones where the fingers should be truly pointed.

As long as folk continue to make excuses & use the govt / corporate proprietary software the term "Awake" is nothing more than a over used dictionary word that folk truly don't know the meaning of.

How can the world change for the better when folk who profess that they are right-brain thinkers have the cheek to call most folk sheople are so reluctant to break their own bondages?
How can a truth preacher/guru be taken seriously when they themselves havn't got a clue about the very truth at their own finger tips? Ironic really..



GNU (http://www.gnu.org/)
Ubuntu (http://www.ubuntu.com/ubuntu)
Distrowatch (http://distrowatch.com/)
Categories of free and nonfree software (http://www.gnu.org/philosophy/categories.html)
Liberating software - Richard Stallman (http://rt.com/programs/spotlight/liberating-software-richard-stallman/)
Richard Stallman (http://stallman.org/) - The daddy of all truth activists (the unsung hero)

[DeDukshyn]

There is one way to eliminate the threat of viruses & spyware once & for all.
Stop buying m/soft products.
If folk think they are also safe using apple products may I suggest you research about what proprietary software really is.

Folk scream that they are "awake" yet they continually complain about what is going on around them. Folk are funding the very corrupt system that is responsible for all this mess. Indirectly, folk who fund the corporate monster are the ones where the fingers should be truly pointed.

As long as folk continue to make excuses & use the govt / corporate proprietary software the term "Awake" is nothing more than a over used dictionary word that folk truly don't know the meaning of.

How can the world change for the better when folk who profess that they are right-brain thinkers have the cheek to call most folk sheople are so reluctant to break their own bondages?
How can a truth preacher/guru be taken seriously when they themselves havn't got a clue about the very truth at their own finger tips? Ironic really..



GNU (http://www.gnu.org/)
Ubuntu (http://www.ubuntu.com/ubuntu)
Distrowatch (http://distrowatch.com/)
Categories of free and nonfree software (http://www.gnu.org/philosophy/categories.html)
Liberating software - Richard Stallman (http://rt.com/programs/spotlight/liberating-software-richard-stallman/)
Richard Stallman (http://stallman.org/) - The daddy of all truth activists (the unsung hero)

Excellent point - like with food - everyone is willing to verbally **** down Big Agra's throat, but how many of those willing to do that eat only (or at least make a serious attempt) locally grown organic foods? We basically pay them to keep their evil ways going and complain about it at the same time.

[Chucky]

I wouldn't worry to much either mate. Burn !? Impossible to burn hard drive. Burning only occurs with a laser burner and hard drives do not write or burn. They have platters and lay down north, south magnetic dots so to speak on the sectors. Represent binary so don't fall for the burn c drive clean notion ok. The world net is full of Virus's and everyone should be vigilant by having good anti-virus software and malware removal gear installed and update frequently.. Thats preparedness that is real. Thanks for the warning anyway.


Can someone check this out?
I have just received two warnings. Is this virus current?


VIRUS COMING !
Hi All,
I checked with Norton Anti-Virus, and they are gearing up for this
Virus!
I checked Snopes, and it is for real. Get this E-mail message sent
Around to your contacts ASAP.
PLEASE FORWARD THIS WARNING AMONG FRIENDS, FAMILY AND CONTACTS!
You should be alert during the next few days. Do not open any message
With an attachment entitled POSTCARD FROM HALLMARK, regardless who sent
It to you. It is a virus which opens A POSTCARD IMAGE, which 'burns' the
Whole hard disc C of your computer.
This virus will be received from someone who has your e-mail address in
His/her contact list. This is the reason why you need to send this
E-mail to all your contacts. It is better to receive this
Message 25 times than to receive the virus and open it.
If you receive a mail called' POSTCARD,' even though sent to you by a
Friend, do not open it! Shut down your computer immediately. This is the
Worst virus announced by CNN.
It has been classified by Microsoft as the most destructive virus ever.
This virus was discovered by McAfee yesterday, and there is no repair
yet for this kind of virus. This virus simply destroys the
Zero Sector of the Hard Disc, where the vital information is
kept.
COPY THIS E-MAIL, AND SEND IT TO YOUR FRIENDS.
REMEMBER: IF YOU SEND IT TO THEM, YOU WILL BENEFIT ALL OF US
=============

All the best,
Tony