The internet has been abuzz with fears that a 10.10.10 – for 10 October 2010 – computer virus will be unleashed that day, prompting experts to warn users to exercise care.
The date, which falls on Sunday, has sparked concern that a virus that day will cause computers’ internal clocks to jam or for a virus to be let loose.
A Facebook page has been set up with the title “Will my computer still work on 10/10/10 at 10.10am?”, while other sites talk about the possibility of hackers unleashing viruses at that time.
“There’s been a long history of virus scares related to specific dates, and it’s not that surprising to hear people whispering about the possible risks looming on 10 October 2010,” said Graham Cluley, computer safety expert at Sophos.
More than 60,000 new pieces of malicious software are being discovered every day, Cluley said, therefore it’s prudent for computer users to be mindful of potential attacks every day of the year.
Users can keep a step ahead of computer virus infections by ensuring up-to-date virus-scanning software is installed and working properly on their computers.
Tina Costanza
