At 08:13  2/07/99 -0400, you wrote:
>Anyway to sum up: this sounds like a virus to me but has anyone ever heard
>of this type.  I can research viruses at the CERT website (among others)
>but I would need the name.  In this case I only know the symptoms.  Can
>anyone enlighten me.

Viruses can have different symptoms at different times - identifying by
symptom is often not that helpful. In addition - it may be that his
description may be wrong or mistaken.

Best to run a good - up to date anti virus program. The program will
identify *if * it is a virus, clean the virus out and let him get on with
his work. (presuming he hasn't already lost data- even than it *may* be
possible to recover some files)

>I'm sure that once I buy an antivirus program for him and run it, I can get
>rid of the virus but I don't know if I would have any chance of recovering
>his files.

No need to buy just yet.
Most good Anti virus programs have a FREE 30 day trial version for download.
There are also a few GOOD FREE programs available for download.
I have links to download sites, for FREE and other programs, on my anti
virus page.
The url of my anti virus site is
http://www.alphalink.com.au/~oleary/Virus/virus1.htm

>He backs up his work at very irregular intervals.  Win 3.1 explains (but
>does not excuse) not having protection.

He is no different to most people

>Any suggestions?

The information on my site should help him.

Good luck and let me know how it goes.
--
TIM O'LEARY -- ICQ: 34954646
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My Anti-Virus reliable information:
http://www.alphalink.com.au/~oleary/Virus/virus1.htm

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