A computer virus hoax is a message, usually in the form of an e-mail, cautioning the receiver of a fictional computer virus threat. The e-mail would also ask the receiver to forward the message to everyone in their social circle.

Such e-mails declare that the virus is capable of performing impractical tasks such as completely damaging the computer, or erasing the entire contents of the computer’s hard drive. The language used in the e-mail is of a melodramatic nature and usually encourages the user to forward the e-mail. The messages also claim to originate from trustworthy companies such as Microsoft or IBM, or from news channels such as CNN or Fox News. At times, even essential system files are falsely claimed to be viruses and the hoax e-mails instruct the users to delete them.

Basic aspects of a computer virus hoax

Computer virus hoaxes are generally harmless in nature and aim to antagonize gullible users and waste their time. Anti-virus software companies tend to warn users about such virus hoaxes and urge them to delete such messages, instead of forwarding them.

Computer viruses hoax typically have the following basic aspects:

  • Exaggerated use of language

Most virus hoax messages are embellished with high sounding words and terms to highlight the seriousness of the virus and its effects. For example: “The worst virus in history “or “unparalleled in its destructive capability”.

  • Hysterical style of writing

Virus hoax messages excessively use upper case letters, exclamation marks, or italics to make users even more apprehensive about the message.

  • Technical information

Misleading technical information is used with the hoax messages to lend authenticity to them. Regular users will not be able to determine the validity of the technical information and may follow the instructions mentioned in the message or follow instructions to forward it to others.

  • Misleading source or information

Virus hoax messages claim to stem from or be endorsed by leading IT companies such as IBM or Microsoft, or even government agencies. At times even anti-virus software companies are mentioned as the source of the message. Another piece of misleading information would be to claim that anti-virus companies are not aware of the virus and do not have a solution for it. Hoax messages also prod users to forward it to other users, as they may also not be aware of the virus. Anti-virus software companies typically release software updates to handle new viruses on the same day of the new virus being discovered.

Most anti-virus software companies maintain a listing of computer virus hoaxes on their websites. Click here to view a general list of computer virus hoaxes.