Amy, yes there are infections that are carried in .doc files, and, when opened in MS Word, can spread to all other .doc files on your system. It doesn't destroy operating software, but can render all your .doc files unusable. The best way to conquer infections that put bad Macros in .doc files is to have, and use, an Anti-Virus program, have it configured properly to check all downloaded files, and to keep its virus definition files updated at least twice weekly. It's also not a bad idea to run a scan on the complete system periodically, say at least weekly. Like you, whenever I receive a .doc file, and I get them all the time, I first run McAfee Scan over the file, even thought it was checked at downloading. Can't be too careful. SgtGeorge At 09:00 AM 05/07/2001, Amy Macdonald wrote: *********START OF ORIGINAL MESSAGE TEXT********* >Sgt. George.....I heard (or read) some time ago that there is a worm >carried >along with .doc files - a Macro - which really destroys ones operating >software......so if I receive a .doc attachment from someone (even >from someone >whom I know) I do not open - I ask first! Can you shed some light >on this??? > >Thanks...Amy Macdonald - Canada. >(snip) **********END OF ORIGINAL MESSAGE TEXT**********