This virus was distributed in usenet newsgroups in February 1996.
Tanpro uses a special way to execute the original host file: when an infected file is run, it creates a hidden file with hidden Alt-255 character as a name. The contents of the original file is then copied there and virus loads and executes this file.
After the execution of the host file the virus stays resident and infects all COM and EXE files that are executed and are smaller than 64kB.
Tanpro.524 has no activation routines: it just spreads.
Based on the settings of your F-Secure security product, it will either move the file to the quarantine where it cannot spread or cause harm, or remove it.
A False Positive is when a file is incorrectly detected as harmful, usually because its code or behavior resembles known harmful programs. A False Positive will usually be fixed in a subsequent database update without any action needed on your part. If you wish, you may also:
Check for the latest database updates
First check if your F-Secure security program is using the latest updates, then try scanning the file again.
Submit a sample
After checking, if you still believe the file is incorrectly detected, you can submit a sample of it for re-analysis.
Note: If the file was moved to quarantine, you need to collect the file from quarantine before you can submit it.
Exclude a file from further scanning
If you are certain that the file is safe and want to continue using it, you can exclude it from further scanning by the F-Secure security product.
Note: You need administrative rights to change the settings.
Variant:Tanpro.749
This virus was distributed in usenet newsgroups in March 1996.
This variant has a random activation routine: it emits a siren sound from the speaker and shakes the screen quickly. The PC continues working dispite of this effect. Otherwise it's similar to the 524 byte variant.