You've probably read about a really bad worm set to hit the public on 4-1-2009. It's called the Conficker Worm, and there's nothing funny about it.
Read about it here:
Conficker WormThe above site is from the Microsoft Security site, and the worm is designed to hit Microsoft products. This threat should not be taken lightly because of the horrendous damage that the worm can do. At the least:
Update the definitions of all of your virus programs FIRST. If you have a problem getting updates for your virus programs, that's a possible symptom of the virus.
Run all of the virus programs you have TODAY and check for the possible presence of the virus before it is set to be released.
While you are on the Microsoft Security site, get the latest Microsoft Malware Program and run it. If you run Microsoft Defender, make sure you have the latest definition files for it and RUN IT. If you can't connect to "microsoft.com" and/or get updates for Microsoft Defender, this is another symptom of the Conficker Worm. If the worm is present on your computer, trying to prevent you from getting security to deal with it is part of the WORM.
If you can't connect to the Microsoft Security link I provided, please consider that to be a serious issue right now. Try going to the home sites of the best known virus programs for additional information and potential cures. If you don't have a virus protection program on your computer - GET ONE. There are several FREE and excellent choices for free virus protection from CNET, Softpedia, SnapFiles, and other download locations known for SAFE program downloads. Get ONE OR MORE of the highest rated virus protection programs and RUN THEM RIGHT NOW. Don't do just quick scans - rather FULL and COMPREHENSIVE scans.
The Conficker Worm is particularly NASTY and has the potential to use your passwords and spread the virus to addresses in your computer for friends and family. Part of the objective is to steal your private and personal information to use in every criminal way you can imagine. This is NOT a HOAX or a joke. Whatever you do to protect, secure, or scan your computer - DO IT TODAY. If you find evidence of the Conficker Worm, get more expert help and information TODAY. If you have good virus protection that is UP TO DATE WITH THE LATEST DEFINITIONS, there's a good chance you are completely protected against this virus, BUT MAKE SURE.
In the meantime, don't go to questionable sites or click on any unknown links on web sites or in email. It's a smart practice to check your incoming email for virus before opening it, regardless of where it comes from - including your friends and family. One of the NASTY things about this virus is how it spreads. It spreads from computers that the owner has no idea what's being done by their computer, and it uses addresses and passwords on that computer to spread. Someone SOMEWHERE will also be collecting private information for identity theft and fraud.
If you are one of those computer geeks who might be smart enough to find the source of the Conficker Worm, Microsoft is offering a 250 thousand dollar reward for this information.
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