Which Companies Respond First to New Virus Alerts Discoveries?

Thanks to the VIA partnership, antivirus companies and software and operating system developers like Microsoft are working together to dispense new virus alerts in a timely fashion and even to apprise users of the bogus virus alerts dispensed via email spam. Currently the members of the VIA who share current data and release it to the public include Aladdin, Computer Associates, ESET, F-secure, Global Hauri, Kaspersky, McAfee, Norman, Panda, Sophos, Sybari, Symantec, Trend Micro, and Virus Buster.

How can I get Regular Security Alerts?

While Microsoft is the home of the VIA, their security bulletins only cover issues effecting Microsoft products. For this reason it is a better idea to visit the security center for the antivirus program you use. For instance, the McAfee AVERT center can be found at vil.nai.com while the Symantec (Norton) site is securityresponse.symantec.com.

Each of these sites and those for other security sources, have options for users to subscribe to email bulletins. When a new piece of malicious software is discovered, bulletins or virus alerts are issued as quickly as possible that give users the name of the virus or malware in question, a description of its behavior, links to removal tools or to patches for vulnerabilities if applicable as well as suggested actions and a threat assessment.

So what happens if I get an Alert? Will my Antivirus Software fix it or do I need a Patch?

Depending on the nature of the malware alert, you may need to "force" your antivirus software to run an update to acquire the latest virus definition file or you may simply need to be on the alert for email messages exhibiting the suspicious behavior described in the security bulletin. If the bulletin identifies vulnerability in your operating system (for instance Windows) or other software you routinely use, you will want to patch that weakness as soon as possible.

One good way to make sure you are staying on top of system vulnerabilities is to install service packs as they become available. Service packs are collections of patches that address a large number of discovered vulnerabilities. They are often made available after the introduction of a new version of an operating system as issues begin to become evident through daily use. Service packs do occasionally react adversely with software already installed on your system so you will want to read all accompanying instructions carefully and perform any software updates before you install the service pack. Usually these adverse interactions can be avoided.

Good computer security is no longer as simple as installing an antivirus program and forgetting about it. By subscribing to a newsletter or bulletin service that will provide you with the latest virus alerts you are taking a proactive stance in protecting the health of your computer system. Remember, however, that virus alerts are only effective if you read the material and follow the suggested courses of action.