Microsoft has learned that Windows 95 is the target of a new computer virus called the "Boza" virus. The virus is not contained within the Windows 95 product. Although the virus is not widespread, Windows 95 customers should be aware that they may encounter this virus by downloading and running an infected program from the Internet, an electronic bulletin board, or an online service, or by running a program from a floppy disk that contains the virus.

To reduce the spread of the virus, Microsoft is working closely with anti-virus software vendors such as Symantec and McAfee Associates to provide protection. Both Symantec and McAfee have posted antivirus updates to address this virus.

Running an infected program can infect up to three Win32 programs in the current directory. When an infected program is executed, it occasionally displays a dialog box with a message from the authors of the virus. Apparently, the virus copies itself to other programs only for the purpose of displaying this message.

Microsoft recommends that customers take the following steps:

1. Do not run unknown programs that are downloaded or copied from a floppy disk.
2. If unknown files have been executed on your computer, or if you don't know whether your computer might contain infected files, obtain a current virus scanner from an anti-virus software vendor and periodically check your computer for infections.