The Aplore Virus: A Messaging Nuisance

As an internet newbie several years ago, I probably fell for every possible scam, virus, and form of spyware that I could get suckered into. Lucky for me, none of them were crippling to my computer or sense of security. The internet Gods have been quite kind to me and I am thankful. And on that note, if people like me do not exist, then virus creators would have very little prey. Because at one point, I did not believe in shifting extra monetary assets into a proper form of virus or spyware protection. Besides, like many young people I was borne of the mentality, "It could never happen to me."

Well, I was wrong. Many times. The first virus I ever got in contact with on-line was right through my yahoo messenger. Before this, I never knew that was even a possibility, let alone something that could develop into a major nuisance. The "contagion rate," that is, the rate in which a given computer can be infected is extremely high. A message from a trusted friend will appear in yahoo messenger. Something like "See if you can get this to work," or "I wanted to show you this" followed by a link. The link always ends with the numbers 8180, making the aplore virus fairly easy to detect...and avoid. I did not have this knowledge beforehand. The virus can appear in the middle of a conversation you are having with an infected friend and can only attach itself to your computer by clicking on the link itself (not just by having a conversation). Mine told me too late that he did not send this message, nor was he responsible for the link that I clicked on. Incidentally enough, once you click on the link, your computer will very temporarily black out. After that, any other person you talk to using yahoo messenger will also get messages regarding that link. These messages will send automatically and there is nothing you can do to stop it.