What is a virus hoax?

Virus hoaxes are messages, almost always sent by email, that amount to little more than chain letters. Following are some of the common phrases that are used in these hoaxes:

* If you receive an email titled [email virus hoax name here], do not open it!
* Delete it immediately!
* It contains the [hoax name] virus.
* It will delete everything on your hard drive and [extreme and improbable danger specified here].
* This virus was announced today by [reputable organization name here].
* Forward this warning to everyone you know!

Most virus hoax warnings do not deviate far from this pattern. If you are unsure if a virus warning is legitimate or a hoax, additional information is available at the Symantec Security Response online database.