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Google Accidentally Sends Virus Files to Group Members

The members of Google`s Video Blog group enlisted for the group in order to get frequent updates about new posts directly to their email boxes. However, last week they got an unexpected message from the group, a message that no one wanted to get. Google accidentally sent 50,000 of the group`s users a copy of the Kama Sutra virus, or in its official name ? W32/Kasper.A@mm.

The file is a worm software that duplicates itself on the users` computer and spreads to other computers using the users` internet connection. The virus portrays itself as a pornographic email, hence the name `Kama Sutra`, and infects the computer once the email is opened. How the worm got on Google`s computers, you ask? The answer is not clear. Google says that the source is unknown, but sent all users a link to free antivirus software that will help them remove any infected files they might have on their computers as a result of the mishap. Not all recipients of the email were infected, but Google sent all members of the group an email with helpful instructions on how to inspect their machines.

The incident reflects a well known problem in the personal computer world, where most users are consumers. People do not update their antivirus signatures often enough, and leave their systems exposed to frequent online attacks. Microsoft`s new Live OneCare product is aimed at preventing this issue by automating the update process. Users of Live OneCare will not have to deal with updating their computer`s protection as the software handles all updates and security concerns for home users.