The Dangers of Runtime Error 216

Most runtime errors are nuisances that annoy the user, but in general, they don’t mean a great deal. However, some DO point to more serious issues, such as runtime error 216.

Error 216 occurs on computers running IE 5.0 or IE 5.01. If you see ‘Runtime error 216 at Address’  when you open your browser on any computer using Windows 98 or ME, you should pay attention to the warning this sends.

What Causes of Runtime Error 216?

The most common cause of runtime error 216 is a virus called SubSeven. This particular piece of work is very complex and is a risk to computers operating under Windows XP, all the way back to 95.

A Trojan Horse virus comes to your computer in the form of an executable file. It comes in the form of some desirable piece of software so that the user will open it. (For instance, if software such as winamp has been infected with this virus, then you may get a runtime error 216 winamp message.)

This is the reason you are always being warned to only download content from websites you trust. This particular virus can open a back door that allows someone else to take remote control of your system and access it anytime he chooses.

How to Know If You’ve Been Infected with the SubSeven Virus

The following are some of the most common symptoms of SubSeven infection:

• Runtime Error 216 occurs each time you open Internet Explorer.
• Strange dialog boxes pop up on your screen for no apparent reason.
• Downloads from the internet take longer than normal.
• Files start disappearing or new files start to show up on your computer.
• CD/DVD drives pop open without you pushing the button to open them.

To fix runtime error 216 and remove SubSeven, run a scan of your system with an updated and current antivirus program. This program will locate, isolate, and remove any known form of virus or Trojan Horse software it locates on your system.

Error messages like runtime error 216 require immediate action on the part of the user. Malware such as SubSeven have been shown to be able to install other malicious applications. Spyware or keyloggers, programs that record your every keystroke, can make it easy for criminals to access your personal information or credit card numbers and steal your identity. Such crimes are on the rise in the world today at a frightening rate.

Malware is also able to embed keys into the system registry that will allow it to reinstall itself following removal in many cases. This is the reason it is important to have a good registry cleanup utility and run it periodically to sweep out all the erroneous, malicious, or simply unused registry keys to prevent problems.