What is Run Time Error 216? How Can I Fix This Error?

Runtime error 216 generally manifests itself with the display of a message Runtime Error 216 at (message). This message may be displayed whenever you invoke Internet Explorer or ICQ, or any other program that uses one of these programs. You may be puzzled on observing that the address associated with this error is not constant and may keep changing with every message displayed.

The reason for this odd behavior by your computer is the presence of the SubSeven Virus. SubSeven is a Trojan virus and like other Trojan viruses that come disguised as something desirable, it may have entered your computer when you unwittingly clicked on a link to the virus. Once it infects a computer the SubSeven modifies Windows system files that are run at startup and replaces references to Internet Explorer with links to the virus file. Once this happens, if you double click on Internet Explorer, you would actually be running the virus files! Once the virus starts running, your computer would display the runtime error message frequently, interrupting your work.

How can one get rid of this error? Here are a few simple solutions to this problem:

Update Antivirus and Scan Computer - This is one of the simplest actions to take. If you are not in the habit of updating your anti-virus software, get the latest update and scan your computer to remove instances of the virus. It would be a good idea to disconnect from the Internet while doing this.Boot into Safe Mode and Scan - This achieves the same objective as the step above. Make sure you have updated antivirus software. Internet connectivity is automatically disabled in safe mode and a virus scan now can detect the SubSeven Virus.

Tech Support/Support from Forums - Unfortunately, some antivirus software packages fail to detect the SubSeven virus or do not identify all instances of this virus resident on your computer. This can be a real problem, as you would have to know exactly which files would need to be deleted to remove the virus. In this case, one option would be to approach the vendor of the antivirus software for technical support and get a walkthrough on the method of removing the virus. Another good source of information is the Internet - several online forums can help you in identifying and removing the affected files.