How to Spot a Virus Hoax

Part 7. Handling Hoaxes

(Do exactly the opposite)

See how easily we can spot these as a being hoaxes? All we need to do is engage the thought process and actively apply what we know about the anatomy of hoaxes. Now that you're better equipped now to spot hoaxes when they come your way, what should you do about them when they arrive?

That's easy. Do exactly the opposite of what the hoaxes say you should do.

Do not forward the false warning to others. Do send a message to the person who sent you the hoax message. Tell him or her it's a hoax. Say, "Don't send it out to others." You may also want to point that person to this paper, so he or she can also understand the nature of virus hoaxes. In addition, tell people to check out our Hype Alert department whenever they receive a suspicious virus warning.