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Short Take: Symantec says it has found first Java virus

Symantec's antivirus research center claims to have found the first Java virus that affects all Java-based applications. The software, once downloaded, will not affect the average PC user or Web surfer and will not necessarily cause any harm to the files it infects. The virus, dubbed "Strange Brew," could present problems for Java developers, Symantec said. An update by the company to combat the virus will be available next week.

antivirus research center claims to have found the first Java virus that affects all Java-based applications. The software, once downloaded, will not affect the average PC user or Web surfer and will not necessarily cause any harm to the files it infects. The virus, dubbed "Strange Brew," could present problems for Java developers, Symantec said. An update by the company to combat the virus will be available next week.