Common Sense Virus Protection Guidelines

1. Use a virus protection program to protect your files and e-mails from becoming infected. Update your anti-virus software regularly. If you do not update your virus software, you are NOT protecting your computer.  Most anti-virus software have an automatic updates setting to make this very simple.  Ensure you enable the automatic updates. 
   
   
2. Do not open files attached to any e-mail from an unknown or suspicious source.
   
   
3. Do not open files attached to an e-mail unless you know who it is from, what it is and how you will use it. Be safe rather than sorry and confirm the contents with the sender.
   
   
4. Do not open files attached to an e-mail if the subject line is questionable or unexpected.
   
   
5. Delete chain and junk e-mails. Never forward or reply to them.
   
   
6. Exercise caution when downloading files from the Internet. Ensure that the source is a legitimate and reputable. Do not download any files from strangers. Verify that an anti-virus program checks the files on the download site. If you're uncertain, don't download the file at all or download the file to a floppy and test it with your anti-virus software.
   
   
7. Back up your files on a regular basis
   
   
8. Also protect your computer from Spyware. Spyware and adware -- also known as scumware -- are programs that can sneak onto your computer via the Internet, slow your PC down, give you unwanted ads, and snoop on your Internet browsing habits. I use "Ad-aware" from http://www.lavasoftusa.com. Use the "Check for Updates Now" feature and let the updates install. But wait before you actually run the main program unti the update completes. To learn more about spyware/adware click here.
   
   
9. Never click on pop-ups. Many viruses and spyware are passed this way. A good pop-up blocker would be a good investment.