Why is Word Constantly Requesting a Virus Scan?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the issue of Microsoft Word requesting a virus scan when attempting to open a document, despite the document having been previously scanned with Norton Antivirus (NAV). Participants explore potential causes and solutions related to antivirus settings and general computer security practices.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant reports that Word is stuck on "requesting virus scan" when opening a document, despite having scanned it with NAV.
  • Another participant inquires whether the scanner settings are configured to scan files upon execution.
  • A participant expresses uncertainty about their antivirus setup, mentioning that they have NAV and additional software like Xoftspy and Adaware, but feel overwhelmed by security measures.
  • One participant suggests that if auto-protect is enabled, it likely scans files on execution, comparing it to how McAfee operates.
  • Another participant shares a personal opinion that home desktop security solutions are inadequate, advocating for a NAT router and basic security practices instead of relying heavily on antivirus software.
  • This participant also mentions their experience with viruses being limited to a spare computer used for experimentation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying opinions on the effectiveness of antivirus software and security practices, with no consensus on the best approach to managing computer security or resolving the specific issue with Word.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved questions regarding the specific configuration of antivirus settings and the effectiveness of different security measures. Participants' experiences and opinions vary widely, reflecting differing levels of technical knowledge and comfort with security software.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for individuals experiencing similar issues with antivirus software and document access, as well as those seeking to understand different perspectives on computer security practices.

DaveC426913
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I'm trying to open a doc that I have already scanned with Norton AV.

Upon opening, Word is "requesting virus scan". Well, it's been doing that for a few minutes now...

What gives? I don't care if it scans it ten times but it seems to be stuck. I don't think its request has been met by NAV.
 
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Do you have your scanner settings such that it scans on execution?
 
Uh I dunno. You mean how I have NAV set up? I don't know. All I see is Auto-protect status is ON.

You know, I liked to consider myself at least a little bit computer savvy (you, know, being a software developer by profession), but I just can't keep up with spyware and virus protection stuff. I don't know if I've got the right s/w, I don't know if I'm protected agianst this or that or what. I've got NAV on my system ,and I've just installed paretologic's Xoftspy, which didn't help so I've installed Adaware.

I honestly have no idea how less savvy people manage at all. I guess they just pay through the nose and have their local computer store do everything for them...
 
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I honestly have no idea how less savvy people manage at all. I guess they just pay through the nose and have their local computer store do everything for them...
yeap

I'll presume if auto-protect is on, then its probably scanning on execution.. So anything you open will be scanned first. I am guessing a bit, but this is how McAfee works...

All this Securty for the Home desktop is crap IMHO.. I never have a Firewall on my PC, I do have a Virus scanner, but I disable it mostly, it slows down my PC. Get rid of the lot, buy a NAT Router, its enough (I doubt you will get TCP seq attacked), and use your computer knowledge, and common sence. Dont execute files you don't know where they came from or what they are, don't use IE, use firefox, don't open spam email. On occation use a adware removal tool, and perhaps McAfee stinger to detect any trojan's.

The only viruses I have had, have been on my spare box when I have been playing with them...
 

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