Two computer viruses related to the Valentine's Day holiday invaded St. Olaf's campus early last week. According to ACC official Tron Compton-Engle, these viruses are "so much more serious than anything we've seen before."

"BleBla," the first of the two viruses to appear on campus, made its first round of infection on February 7. This virus, also known as "Romeo and Juliet" by its attachment name, has currently gotten its second wind.

The "BleBla" virus uses Java script to launch itself into PC computers. Transmitted through email, this virus executes as soon as you open the message. "The moment the virus gets into the PC, all files opened from that computer will be contaminated," said Compton-Engle. "When students open the contaminated files on different computers in the labs, each computer used also becomes infected."

In order to safeguard against "BleBla," ACC representatives urge those using the Emissary message service to switch to Netscape Messenger. The latter of the two services enables itself to turn Java script off when using email. "BleBla" also affects Microsoft Outlook, Outlook Express, and Eudora mail clients.

"OnTheFly­otherwise known by its attachment "Annakournikova.jpg.vbs"­emerged last Monday. Unlike "BleBla," this virus can be deleted before it has the chance to infect your computer. It travels in the form of attachments. To protect your computer from this virus, ACC officials recommend that you always ask the sender as to the nature of the attachment before opening it.

ACC consultants have reported that they are now taking a more aggressive approach to combating these viruses. More messages will be sent out when outbreaks occur, and the ACC vows to maintain better contact with area coordinators on campus. Within the forthcoming weeks, improved Norton Anti-Virus software will also be available to students free of charge.

While both viruses create problems for students, faculty, and staff alike, most problems can be eradicated quickly. "These viruses cause no permanent damage other than lost files," said Compton-Engle.

If you should happen to discover "BleBla," "OnTheFly," or any other computer virus, call the ACC at 646-3830 or stop by the helpdesk immediately. For the more computer savvy, instruction is available online from the F-Secure link located on the Emissary page.