But almost every mainstream media outlet didn't know the right question and subsequently reported that Social Security numbers were removed from the database entirely. Victims can combat this virus by typing their names at the bottom of infected files, thereby signing them, as if signing a contract. Clipper scrambles all the data on a hard drive, rendering it useless. Lecture deliberately formats the hard drive, destroying all data, then scolds the user for not catching it. Clinton is designed to infect programs, but it eradicates itself when it cannot decide which program to infect.
SPA examines programs on the hard disk to determine whether they are properly licensed.
If the virus detects illegally copied software, it seizes the computer's modem, automatically dials 911, and asks for help. NEWS.COM wants your Perspective. Email your essay to opinions editor Margie Wylie to be considered for our guest editorial spot, the Soapbox. 1995-99 CNET Inc. All rights reserved.