The media loves to write about viruses named for famous people or events. They also like to talk about a virus writer’s attire, lifestyle, and political views. Many virus experts realize this and they play on the media’s fetish for juicy computer virus stories.

Result: we hear about viruses named after Lady Diana, or Anna Kournikova, or a Jerry Seinfeld character, or Bart Simpson. We hear about hackers who wear plastic bangles when they meet the U.S. president.

None of this matters to antivirus software, though — and it shouldn’t matter to you, either.

• FAQ: How often does virus hysteria occur?
• FAQ: How can I reduce the spread of hoax virus alerts in my company?
• FAQ: How can I spot a hoax computer virus/worm alert?
• FAQ: I received a virus alert from an authoritative source. Should I forward it to my friends?
• FAQ: My friend forwarded a hoax email to everyone. What can I do to help my duped friend?
• FAQ: Why are we so addicted to antivirus updates?
• FAQ: Why do reporters focus on pointless trivia when they write about viruses & worms?
• FAQ: Why do we constantly update antivirus products, yet only occasionally update anti-hacking products?
• FAQ: Will ‘cyber-terrorism’ occur in the near future?

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