Spinner joke
Additional type information.
Date that AVERT discovered this threat.
File size, in bytes, of the threat.
McAfee DAT files contain detection and repair information for threats. The Minimum DAT field specifies the lowest/oldest DAT version that is capable of detecting the first incarnation of a threat, and the release date. The highest/newest DAT version should always be used for the most complete protection and are available on the Anti-Virus Updates page.
Each description displays the minimum, fully tested, DAT version that includes regular detection for a particular threat. These fully tested DATs are released on a daily basis. If necessary, they are also released when a Medium, Medium On Watch, or High risk threat is discovered. An EXTRA.DAT will also be posted for these more prevalent threats, if necessary.
For each description listed, detection is always available. In the event that the DAT version specified is not yet available, an EXTRA.DAT file may be downloaded via the McAfee AVERT Extra.dat Request Page. Alternatively, minimally tested HOURLY BETA DAT files are available for downloading.
McAfee DAT files are constantly being updated to enhance detection capabilities. The Updated DAT field specifies the released DAT version that contains the most up to date detection.
The scan engine uses the DAT files to detect threats. The Minimum Engine field specifies the lowest/oldest engine version that is capable of detecting this threat. The highest/newest engine version should always be used for the most complete protection and are available on the Anti-Virus Updates page.
Date/time this description was published using Pacific Time.
Date/time this description was last modified using Pacific Time.
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Characteristics
"Spinner joke" is neither a virus nor a trojan. It is a detection of the program type (under which non-malicious but sometimes unwanted objects are detected).
Upon user execution, the joke program will take the user's desktop and spin it sideways for about 30 seconds. Once done, the following message will be displayed in the center of the screen:
Detection of the “Joke” type is not automatically activated. Users who would like to check for the presence of this kind of files on their system should run the command line scanner with the /PROGRAM switch.
Please note that VirusScan 7, or higher, has also an option, which enables users to detect this kind of program automatically (see below).
