Friday the 13th: a virus is lurking
Article Abstract:
On or after Friday, Oct 13, 1989, computer users across North America will lose the file allocation table of their hard disk drives to a virulent computer virus known variously as Datacrime or the Columbus Day Virus. Users are being warned by computer experts to back up their data files. The loss of the file allocation table will make the information stored on a hard disk inaccessible. Users will have to re-format the hard disk again, which will destroy all the files on it. A less destructive virus called Jerusalem is also scheduled to trigger on Friday the 13th. The number of computers which have been exposed to these viruses is unknown. Organizations which have large numbers of microcomputers have run out of time to use a virus elimination utility. Viruses can be picked up through diskette or file exchange or downloading information from an electronic bulletin board as well as by sabotage.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: News, opinion and commentary
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1989
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Computer virus cure may be worse than disease
Article Abstract:
Computer users have been alarmed about their systems' vulnerability to viruses since a major virus jammed a nationwide network in the fall of 1988. Some users have begun using anti-viruses to find and destroy virus programs. Unfortunately such anti-viruses can be as damaging as what they are supposed to eliminate if they are poorly executed. Some industry watchers see the anti-virus movement as a dangerous form of vigilanteism. At a meeting of hacker hobbyists a proposal was made to create and spread such vaccination software, a move which worries users who fear that a well-intended program could get away from its maker and do more damage than a virus.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: News, opinion and commentary
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1989
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Where the libraries are leading the way
Article Abstract:
Libraries are leading the way in information technology by using processes such as imaging to save space, and should serve as an example of how business should manage its information. Imaging technology makes electronic copies of physical documents and provides an efficient means of retrieving information. The physical deterioration of books and microfilm is causing libraries to explore the use of optical technology whereby electronic data is stored on compact disks and can be accessed by anyone via a microcomputer. It is expected that storing information on optical disks will become widespread once standards are implemented.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: News, opinion and commentary
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1990
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