A "Black Hole Exploit" virus that internet specialists say is from Russia infected the website server at Horry Georgetown Technical College, causing temporary trouble for students and applicants.

Internet search engine "Google" blacklisted the website last week and again Sunday.

Fall registration is underway at the college, and next week is the final week of summer school at HGTC.

"We are transferring information and updating security software for all PCs and urge any students having computer issues to call the campus HelpDesk, 349-5340," said HGTC Senior Vice President Marilyn Fore in a press release.

She said the issue is particularly disturbing because "about 25 percent of our courses are offered online to accommodate schedules of working students."

Students are encouraged to clear the cache on their computers before accessing www.hgtc.edu, because visitors to the site over the past few days may have had their computers infected, and the virus works by attaching itself to visiting computers and attacking those computers upon the next site visit.

Students having difficulty registering may e-mail professors directly and applicants may e-mail admissions@hgtc.edu.