Are binary files a virus risk?

Are binary files safe to launch without a virus scan? If not, what is
the safest procedure for viewing and scanning?

I used to launch these all the time without a thought about viruses.
But I have been trying to be more careful so would appreciate some
advice. I am hoping at least in the moderated groups they are
pre-scanned.

Thanks for any advice.
Sandy
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"Sandy M" <cahaba2REMOVE DeleteThis @yahoo.com> wrote in message
news:cadfg1t78mcchuk7af9o1clvagcmdkc0cu@4ax.com...
> Are binary files safe to launch without a virus scan? If not, what is
> the safest procedure for viewing and scanning?
>
> I used to launch these all the time without a thought about viruses.
> But I have been trying to be more careful so would appreciate some
> advice. I am hoping at least in the moderated groups they are
> pre-scanned.
>
In a word *NO* as for the second part of your question. The safest
procedure for viewing is to first quarantine the suspect file for a few
days just to make sure that there isn't any *new* virus that is out for
which none of the major (also the minor) AV companies have received a copy
of with which to make a data file update to their software for it to be able
to both identify and eradicate it.
Of course that would be in a perfect world; because almost no one wants
to wait days to weeks to open a file. If however the sender is suspect then
you have to use the wet ware between your ears and make as much of an
informed decision as you can. Then if you don't want to wait before
scanning it, go ahead and scan it. More then likely if it is any virus or
other malware which has been in the wild for some time then any of the major
AV software makers product should be able to find if it is a virus or other
malicious file.


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From the Desk of Sugien
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