AVOIDING COMPUTER VIRUSES

Computer viruses come around as regularly as the flu season. While there may be no inoculation for your computer, some careful practices will help keep your computer safe.

1. Do not accept "security patches" or "updates" which arrive by email. MICROSOFT DOES NOT SEND UPDATES/PATCHES BY EMAIL. Go directly to the Microsoft Windows Update website and download the appropriate patches.

2. Keep a current anti-virus program installed and protection enabled at all times. Be faithful about downloading and installing updates to your particular program. An anti-virus program which is not kept up-to-date is worthless.

3. Do not open executable files (usually identified as *.exe, but this may be hidden) that are received by email or chat.

4. Do not open unexpected files received by email or chat.

5. Finally, do not pass on "rumors" of viruses, which are a form of chain letter. Check it out first!