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Test your product with the EICAR test file which is designed for users and administrators who want to check the proper operation of their anti-virus software without using actual viruses. It is a safe file, and it can be downloaded from http://www.f-secure.com/virus-info/eicar_test_file.shtml. If desired, you can create the file also manually by following the instructions given on the page.
When the F-Secure antivirus product is enabled and running correctly, you should neither be able to save nor execute the EICAR.COM file. You may still be able to save it with a different filename, such as EICAR.COO. The reason for this is that with the default settings only files with specified file extensions are scanned. If you later try to rename the file to EICAR.COM to execute it, the renaming attempt will be prevented. Also, if you download and save the zipped version of EICAR, this usually works fine. With the default settings, compressed files are not scanned in real time for performance reasons. Once you open the zip file (e.g. with WinZip) and try to extract or execute the actual EICAR.COM file, only then will the virus warning be issued.
It is recommended that you try out your antivirus product safely with this file. Please note that the EICAR.COM file cannot be "disinfected", only renamed or deleted (explanation: http://support.f-secure.com/enu/corporate/virusproblem/howtoclean/cannotbecleaned.shtml). By testing the product with EICAR.COM, you can get familiar with the typical product windows that are displayed as soon as your computer is found infected. Change the settings of the antivirus product to "stricter" ones (or increase the security level) and see how it affects the operation of the product.
Warning! Be cautious with EICAR if you want to try out what happens when your mailbox becomes infected. EICAR is a safe file in itself but your actions during computer disinfection might make it hazardous. Before doing anything, read page http://support.f-secure.com/enu/corporate/virusproblem/howtoclean/infectedmailbox.shtml. This is especially important if you have an antivirus product that does not scan the incoming/outgoing emails. If the infected file is named OUTLOOK.PST, INBOX.DBX or similar (i.e. it is your mailbox file), do not select "Delete automatically" because it will delete your entire mailbox file. If, however, you delete the file by accident, refer to page http://support.f-secure.com/enu/corporate/virusproblem/howtoclean/restoremailbox.shtml for further instructions.
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