Q: "How do I keep from getting viruses on my computer?"

A: Several things can be done to help prevent getting infected, however nothing is "bulletproof".

1. Have Antivirus / Antispyware installed on your PC and make sure the definitions are up to date.



2. Use a current version of your Internet Browser and make sure the pop-up blocker is turned on.



3. Make sure Microsoft Windows Updates and Security Patches are installed and up to date.



4. Be cautious when opening email. It’s best not to open email from people you don’t know. Also be wary of email attachments. If you’re not absolutely sure of the origin of an email or attachment, delete it.



5. Be cognoscente of pop-up windows informing you that your PC had been infected with spyware and showing you an active scan and a growing list of infections. This is usually an attempt to entice you to either click somewhere in the window which, in turn, will infect your PC, or offer you a solution to remove the infection(s) which you can purchase on the spot with a credit card. If you suspect a fake antivirus attempt, run task manager ( ctrl+alt+del) and stop the suspected browser instance(s) under the “Applications” tab.



6. Stay away from file sharing programs like Limewire, Emule, Edonkey, Kazaa, Bearshare, Morpheus, etc. They are all havens for suspicious activity, not to mention potentially illegal.

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