| Applies to |
| Microsoft Word 97 and 2000 |
| Microsoft Outlook® 98 and 2000 |
The VBS.Freelink virus distributes itself as an e-mail attachment. The e-mail message may appear as if it is from an acquaintance. The "To" field will be empty and the following text will appear:
Check this.
Have fun with these links.
Bye
The attachment to this message is normally named "Links.vbs." If a recipient opens the attachment and answers yes to a prompt to create a desktop shortcut, the shortcut is created and links to an adult web site. If Outlook is running, once the attachment is opened the virus will search all address entries in all Outlook address books to create a list of recipients that will be sent a generated message containing the virus attachment. It is important to note that the VBS.Freelink virus does not execute automatically.
What should I do if I receive this virus?
Customers receiving this e-mail message should delete it immediately without opening the attachment and then empty the deleted items folder. If you have been affected by this virus, you can purchase software from most of the major anti-virus companies that will detect, clean, and prevent the VBS.Freelink virus from infecting your machine again.
Who can the virus affect?
This virus can affect your machine if you use Word 97 or Word 2000 with Outlook 98 or 2000. If you do not use this software, this particular virus does not affect you.
How do I ensure I will not be infected?
- Run the latest anti-virus software, and scan often. Also remember to keep your anti-virus software up to date by installing the latest signature files for that company.
- Do not open unknown e-mail attachments.
The following are URLs for vendors that have a fix for the VBS.Freelink virus:
http://www.trendmicro.com/vinfo/default.asp
http://www.symantec.com/avcenter/download.html
