How To Name A Virus

from the very-carefully dept

Ever wonder how computer viruses get their names? Neither did I, but here’s an article all about it. It’s a pretty random process. The rules are that the first researcher who discovers the virus names it, and they should try to name it anything except what the virus writer wants them to name it. That includes keeping the virus writer’s name out of the name of the virus. They also say that the name shouldn’t include a date. However, after that, anything is fair game. Code Red, for instance, was named after a soft drink.


Add Your Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Have a Techdirt Account? Sign in now. Want one? Register here

Comment Options:

Make this the or (get credits or sign in to see balance) what's this?

What's this?

Techdirt community members with Techdirt Credits can spotlight a comment as either the "First Word" or "Last Word" on a particular comment thread. Credits can be purchased at the Techdirt Insider Shop »

Follow Techdirt

Techdirt Daily Newsletter

Ctrl-Alt-Speech

A weekly news podcast from
Mike Masnick & Ben Whitelaw

Subscribe now to Ctrl-Alt-Speech »
Techdirt Deals
Techdirt Insider Discord
The latest chatter on the Techdirt Insider Discord channel...
Loading...