Virus Information
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VIRUS INFORMATION
Along with the the benefits the Internet brings to our lives there are also many potential problems that the Internet poses. Among them are Viruses. Viruses can simply be a pest, or they can cause real quantified damage to your computer and important data. This is why taking the proper precautions against viruses is so important.
This page provides tips on keeping yourself safe from viruses, and it also provides links to information about the latest threats.
In the virus game, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
Virus Detection and Prevention Tips
VIRUS DETECTION AND PREVENTION TIPS
- Do not open any files attached to an email from an unknown, suspicious or untrustworthy source.
- Do not open any files attached to an email unless you know what it is, even if it appears to come from a dear friend or someone you know. Some viruses can replicate themselves and spread through email. Better be safe than sorry and confirm that they really meant to send it.
- Do not open any files attached to an email if the subject line is questionable or unexpected.
- Delete chain emails and junk email. Do not forward or reply to any of them. These types of email are considered spam, which is unsolicited, intrusive mail that clogs up the network. Many people with bad intentions send junk email looking for valid email addresses to test their virus wears on. And if you reply to this junk mail you could become their next target.
- Do not download any files from strangers.
- Exercise caution when downloading files from the Internet. Ensure that the source is a legitimate and reputable one. 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 own anti-virus software.
- Update your anti-virus software regularly. Over 200 viruses are discovered each month, so you'll want to be protected.
- Keep your Browser and e-mail software up-to-date . Many of the latest versions of e-mail and internet browsing software institute countermeasures against viruses. Internet Explorer and Outlook Express 6 has a feature that can prevent you from becomming infected by blocking certain e-mail attachments. It also prevents your computer from sending out infected e-mail messages with out your knowledge. You can download the latest version of Internet Explorer and Outlook Express from Microsoft
- Back up your important files on a regular basis. If a virus destroys your files, at least you can replace them with your back-up copy.
- When in doubt, always error on the side of caution and do not open, download, or execute any files or email attachments.
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