90_PENNYPAB@UNION.BITNET (10/24/89)
I just subscribed to this list, so this posting may be redundant. Bear with me... I worked for IBM over the summer and had a chance to take a look at their VIRSCAN program, which others have discussed on this list. Unfortunately the version I used is listed as "IBM Internal Use Only", meaning that It is only to be used for IBM related purposes. According to the Forums I read on the IBM network while working there, VIRSCAN is supposed to be one of the better programs for detecting known viruses. What I would like to know is if there is a similar version of this program available to the general public, and if so how to get a copy of it. Also, if a public version of this program is available, how are updates to the virus signature files (SIGFILE.LST and SIGBOOT.LST for VIRSCAN) kept up to date, if they are at all? Bruce Pennypacker 90_PENNY@UNION.BITNET 90_PENNYPAB@GAR.UNION.EDU
CHESS@YKTVMV.BITNET (David.M..Chess) (10/25/89)
This is the information I have; I think it's still correct (I'm
sure everyone will tell me if I'm wrong!):
IBM Personal Computer and PS/2 customers may
order the virus detection program by calling 1-800-426-7282
from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern time through December 31,
1989 and requesting the IBM Virus Scanning Program, part
number 64F1424. The $35 fee can be charged to
VISA, MasterCard, American Express, or the IBM Credit Card.
There were also a bunch of security-related announcements from IBM
yesterday that I haven't finished reading yet; there may have been
something of relevance in there. I haven't seen any mention of
official updates to the signature files.
This program is very similar to the internal version of VIRSCAN that
you saw while working for IBM.
While I'm here, I'll also mention that it's a good idea to get
anti-virus software direct from the owner whenever possible, and not
trust indirect or pirated versions from questionable sources.
Anti-virus programs are obvious candidates for malicious Trojan-Horse
hacks!
DC