A recent sp*m post to the list was not intentionally sent by the list member. His/her computer has been compromised by malware that plants a trojan or key stroke logger on a computer and can then take over that computer to do many things, including sending sp*m emails to any and all email addresses located in files on the compromised computer. That member, and any other member whose computer is compromised will be placed on moderation until they verify to me that the problem has been corrected. However, before you become a victim and have a compromised computer, remember that the consequences for the owner of the computer may be even more serious that sending unwanted emails. The trojan may also be copying personal information stored on your computer, e.g. your social security number, medical records, the name of your bank, the password you use for online banking, -- the list is as long as the list of things for which you use your computer. Please folks -- protect yourselves. Use a firewall. Install an anti-virus program and keep it updated. Run a malware detection program regularly if your AV program does not include one. You can also run one of the freebies such as AdAware in addition to your AV program. Do not click on links in emails sent to you by people you do not know Even if you do know the person who supposedly sent you the link, check it out before clicking on the link. Links do not necessarily go to the site they say they do. Do not allow programs to make changes to your computer unless you verify the source of those changes. If you visit a web site and are asked to download something or update a program on your computer, and your AV program pops up a warning, READ and HEED that warning. Many malware authors are adept at making malware appear to be an authentic update to a popular program. Pat Asher Freepages List Admin