[Caine]

I've got a trial version of NOD32 running at the moment and would like to know if there's some way to test if it's been configured correctly? Is there some way to send a 'safe' (ie: harmless) virus by browser or email so I know not to worry about Firefox or Outlook Express 2k?

I've found a scan at grc.com sheildsUP to check my FW and proxy server, which indicated it isn't set up properly. Some advice on fixing those settings too would be appreciated.

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http://www.eicar.org...s_test_file.htm

Using real viruses for testing in the real world is rather like setting fire to the dustbin in your office to see whether the smoke detector is working. Such a test will give meaningful results, but with unappealing, unacceptable risks.

Since it is unacceptable for you to send out real viruses for test or demonstration purposes, you need a file that can safely be passed around and which is obviously non-viral, but which your anti-virus software will react to as if it were a virus.

The file is a legitimate DOS program, and produces sensible results when run (it prints the message "EICAR-STANDARD-ANTIVIRUS-TEST-FILE!").

It is also short and simple - in fact, it consists entirely of printable ASCII characters, so that it can easily be created with a regular text editor. Any anti-virus product that supports the text link button test file should detect it in any file.

[Neil Jones]

http://www.eicar.org...s_test_file.htm

Using real viruses for testing in the real world is rather like setting fire to the dustbin in your office to see whether the smoke detector is working. Such a test will give meaningful results, but with unappealing, unacceptable risks.

Since it is unacceptable for you to send out real viruses for test or demonstration purposes, you need a file that can safely be passed around and which is obviously non-viral, but which your anti-virus software will react to as if it were a virus.

The file is a legitimate DOS program, and produces sensible results when run (it prints the message "EICAR-STANDARD-ANTIVIRUS-TEST-FILE!").

It is also short and simple - in fact, it consists entirely of printable ASCII characters, so that it can easily be created with a regular text editor. Any anti-virus product that supports the text link button test file should detect it in any file.