From CNN.com: Worm strikes down Windows 2000 systems

A computer worm shut down computer systems running the Windows 2000 operating system across the United States on Tuesday, hitting computers at CNN, ABC and The New York Times.

Around 5 p.m. computers began crashing at CNN facilities in New York and Atlanta. ABC said its problems began in New York about 1:30 p.m.

While the worm primarily affects Windows 2000, it also can affect some early versions of Microsoft XP, he said.

Typically, the virus enters a system via a laptop connected to unsecured networks, Ullrich said. “This laptop will infect your systems from the inside.”

Protect yourself! Make sure that you have all the latest updates from Microsoft. Make sure that your anti-virus program/definitions are updated. (You are running an anti-firus program, right?)

Read more about this worm, it’s symptoms and how to get rid of it at the following sites:

• Microsoft
• Symantec

Microsoft is encouraging those who are infected to should contact their local FBI office or post their complaint on the Internet Fraud Complaint Center