Honor system virus
Honor system viruses or
signature viruses are not actual
computer viruses but
Internet jokes or
memes that are passed around voluntarily. The text of such a "virus" could be as follows:
- This virus works on the honor system.
- Please forward this message to everyone you know, then delete all the files on your hard disk.
- Thank you for your cooperation.
This is also known as the
Amish Computer Virus.
Discount variant:
- This computer has just been infected by the Discount Virus.
- Due to budgetary constraints we have had to let our programming staff go. We are counting on you to use the honor system.
- Please erase all of the files from your hard drive and then send this message to the first 50 people on your mailing list.
Apparently this variant fooled some people into thinking they actually received a virus.
Signature variant (for e-mail signatures):
--
I'm a signature virus. Please add me to your signature
and help me spread!