From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.
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.
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.
Signature variant (for e-mail signatures):
-- I'm a signature virus. Please add me to your signature and help me spread!
