The only way to stop computer viruses spreading so virulently is for Internet service providers to stop passing them to subscribers, says MessageLabs of Gloucestershire (GB 2367714). The firm is patenting ISP server software which will allow providers to scan Net traffic for messages that have similar characteristics to known viruses. Warning signs could include particular email headers, text, similarly sized attachments, mailing to alphabetically sequential addresses, and programs disguised as text or pictures. The system will then stop suspect traffic and check it. It will also trap spam email.
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