With the increase in the growth of viruses and Trojan programs, many computer users have turned to the Internet as a fast and easy tool to warn friends and co-workers of these threats. At the same time, there has also been a growth of virus hoax warnings. These warnings often describe fantastical or impossible virus or Trojan program characteristics, but appear to be real or forwarding these hoax warnings to friends and co-workers only perpetuates the problem.

Here are some points to remember when receiving or reading email messages:

1. If you receive an email with an attached file from an unknown source, simply delete it.

2. Viruses and Trojan programs must have code that is executed in order to infect. If you "double-click" an attached file on an email message, you are executing code and may infect your machine. (Note: Newer antivirus software is capable of scanning these attachments before they are opened.)

If you suspect your computer is infected with a virus you should scan with HouseCall, Trend Micro's free, online virus scanner.

 A hoax

January 30 , 2003

In December 2000, the American Humane Association learned of a Web site that proposed as a form of entertainment -- the intentional disfigurement of kittens. The Web site proposes that kittens be placed in jars, provided with tubes for breathing and elimination, and kept alive to grow into the shape of the jar. These "Bonsai kittens" would then presumably be kept as a novelty.

The Web site has sporadically disappeared and reappeared. Both the outrageous nature of the Web site, along with other information obtained, indicate that the Web site is a hoax. However, the language and graphic photos on the site could lead to attempts to replicate the Bonsai kitten. The Oregon Humane Society and the American Humane Association feel the site may inspire acts of animal cruelty.

The Oregon Humane Society joins with the American Humane Association and unalterably opposes all abuse to animals, including intentional disfigurement. Studies show that those who perpetrate violence toward animals often are the same people who perpetrate violence toward children and other vulnerable populations. Web sites such as this only perpetuate this cycle of violence.

OHS supports the prosecution of anyone who maliciously and intentionally disfigures an animal for the purpose of entertainment. All 50 states have animal cruelty laws that make the practice of producing Bonsai kittens illegal. If you possess information that someone is trying to replicate this process, please alert your local authorities immediately.

Please do not send e-mail or contact the person running the site. This only encourages the posting of the site in additional locations. Thank you for your concern for these animals.

Another interesting Hoax page.

Bonsai Dog !                            Bonsai Cat!

This is what you can mail to as many as possible ! ! !