Hello all - The current conversation about computer viruses on this list and another, along with the recent increase in viruses and worms circulating via e-mail attachments, has prompted me to write this e-mail in order to help everyone resolve this issue and move forward with other things. I hope you find this helpful. Successful surfing, Cyndi FOOLPROOF METHODS TO AVOID COMPUTER VIRUSES ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1. Run a virus-scanning software program at all times when your computer is turned on. Most of the newest versions of popular programs will automatically load and automatically run (checking files in use) while you have your computer running. 2. Keep the virus-scanning software current, with a list of the most recently identified viruses. The virus signature list can be regularly downloaded --free-- from the web site of the program's manufacturer. I recommend updating this file at least once or twice a month. Put this on your regular to-do list! 3. Create a folder on your computer's hard drive named "Download." Place all files you download from the Internet into that folder. Have your e-mail program automatically place all e-mail attachments into that same folder. This allows you to have control over where newly downloaded files are placed and control over scanning them for viruses. 4. Whenever in doubt, run your virus-scanning program on the "Download" folder to check all the current files for possible viruses or worms. 5. If you receive a file attachment from someone online, consider these things before you attempt to open/run the file: a. Do you know the person that sent you the file? b. Do you know what the file is for? c. Do you know why they are sending you a file? d. Have you recently updated your virus-scanning program? -- If yes, you shouldn't have any problems. -- If no, update your program first, before opening the file. e. Do you really want and/or need this file? 6. Whenever in doubt, do not open/run a suspect file. Instead, delete it. 7. Whenever in doubt, do not assume anything about the file or who sent it. Instead, ask that person about the file and its purpose. 8. Each year or two, look into possible upgrades of the basic virus scanning program itself (not the virus sig list, but the software that runs the program). Does your current program have all the latest and greatest bells and whistles? If not, spend a few dollars and upgrade. 9. Don't ever procrastinate. It isn't worth the bother of putting this off and then cleaning up a virus/worm mess after it is too late. a. Install a virus scanning program. b. Run the virus program regularly. c. Update the virus signature file regularly. d. Do it NOW! ANTI-VIRUS SOFTWARE & UPDATES --------------------------------------------------------- Symantec AntiVirus Research Center http://www.symantec.com/avcenter/ Download Updates http://www.symantec.com/avcenter/download.html McAfee.com Anti-Virus Center http://www.mcafee.com/anti-virus/ Download Center http://software.mcafee.com/centers/download/ VIRUS HOAXES ------------------------- 99% of the viruses you hear about will end up being a hoax or a chain-letter which is propogated merely for mischief. Don't panic when you receive messages like this, but instead investigate the virus and educate your friends online. Here are two very important online resources that you should bookmark and visit whenever you hear of suspected viruses: Hoaxbusters - U.S. Dept. of Energy Computer Incident Advisory Capability (CIAC) http://hoaxbusters.ciac.org/HoaxBustersHome.html Vmyths.com - Truth About Computer Virus Myths & Hoaxes http://www.Vmyths.com/ Both of these sites are quite valuable and contain some very sound advice, facts, etc. regarding viruses, hoaxes and myths. Be sure to pass the names and addresses for these sites on to your friends as well.