Strange file in root directory

I jrecently notice that there is a file at the root directory with a strange file name "~" without extension. When I opened it with notepad, I found a bunch of names with unmeaningful symbols, the readable part shows names in my address book. I delete it but next time it comes back again.

The file date is cuurent.
I am using Windows XP pro, outlook express 6 and I also use spam filter program mailwasher.

Can anybody tell me if my computer is being attached by virus or what is the cause of this file?

Appreciate any help
Thanks

 

Look here. Are you, by any chance, running Norton?

 

~ file

Hi Brett
Thanks for leading me to the posting. As long as I am not alone and as long as it doesn't do my computer any harm, I am fine.
Yes I do have Norton System Work 2002 in my computer, does it make any difference?

Thanks for your help

 

Dunno, Stephen. All I can tell you is that so far everybody who is experiencing this issue is using NAV.

 

Not Norton.

I use ETrust EZvirus same problem. But all I have heard of appear on desktop. Yours is in the root of c:\?

It is a bug in the last OE6 sp. Not a fix yet that I know of. No harm caused except no backup of WAB.

Mike

 

Ah well, Mike, that's the NAV theory outta the window!

Yes, the ~ files, although usually on the Desktop, can and do appear anywhere and everywhere!

 

I use AVG so there isn't an apparent AV to blame. My Tilde file shows up at C:\Documents and Settings\Owner\. Incidentally, any time you need an Address Book backup to draw from, just rename ~ to anything.wa~ and you're all set.

 

Its norton spying on you. via trojan

 

Nah, it's just one of the little glitches of the last service patch, not to worry. It'll be corrected with the next patch but then you'll get something even worse.