Computer Software Reviews
Copyright (c) 1994, Louis Turbeville
All rights reserved

ANSICHEK Version 7.0
DOS Freeware Program
Patrick Harvey
Email to : MRGALAXY@AOL.COM

One of the worse things that could possible happen during the holiday's is to 
have your computer trashed by a computer virus or related program.  We have 
all heard the gospel: Backup your data and scan for viruses.  While I scan 
my hard drive and floppies regularly, I must admit that I do not back up my 
files as often as I should.  However, there are many other dangers that we 
should check for on our computer.  

One form of vicious attack on your computer system could be in the form of an 
ANSI bomb. I had heard about ANSI bombs, but had never really had a good 
understanding of how an ANSI file could harm my computer.  After I downloaded 
the file ANSICHK7.ZIP I got an education as well as peace of mind.  

As explained in the documentation file, what the program ANSICHEK is designed 
to do is scan files for hidden and possible dangerous ANSI codes that could 
remap your keyboard, and inform you of their existance.  If you were to look 
at or TYPE a file that had an ANSI code that remapped your keyboard, you 
would not know it until you pressed the key that was remapped.  An example is 
that your spacebar could be redefined to start a hard disk format when 
pressed, and you wouldn't know until you pressed the spacebar and the damage 
has begun. 

An included program is BOMBVIEW.  This program will allow you to safely view 
any suspected files, without the threat of actually activating the keyboard 
re-definition.  If you are unsure whether what you are looking at is safe or 
not, ask and friend and play it safe.  Do not try view a file that ANSICHEK 
suspects may have a bomb with any other program than VIEWBOMB, or you could 
be in for a devastating surprise.

The best part is that this protection is free.  What better way to go into 
the holiday season then to get a useful program for free.  I highly encourage 
that you look for this freeware program and use it regularly along with your 
virus scanner.