Virus Tip No. 1: Make sure that you have anti-virus software with the most current updates. Anti-virus software is the single best investment for protecting your computer. Anyone who counts on their computer should have anti-virus protection. Anti-virus software without regular updates isn't a whole lot better. PlumChoice strongly recommends that you set up your computer to automatically download the latest anti-virus software updates and perform a full-system virus scan weekly. In some cases it may be necessary to do this manually. If you need assistance, we can check your virus protection and make appropriate changes or recommendations online in 15 minutes with only a $20 cost.

   Virus Tip No. 2: If your anti-virus software notifies you that a virus has been detected, do not ignore it. Many times people are warned but ignore it because they are in a rush. Make sure that you either delete or quarantine the detected file.

   Virus Tip No. 3: Be very cautious about opening attachments or clicking on links that arrive via email. The current viruses often entice readers to click on a link, activate a download, or open an attachment. The emails often appear to come from somebody you know. PlumChoice strongly recommends that you do not click on any links or downloads via email unless you are expecting that specific download and know that it is legitimately from the sender. If you have any questions about the legitimacy of the email, you can reply to the sender and ask if they intended to send it before you open the download. In other words, odds are OK for opening up e-cards sent via Hallmark.com on your birthday, but we'd be extremely cautious about other downloads that you weren't expecting.

          Amidst the current spike in email virus activity, we sincerely hope that you avoid the worst of it. If you need help, we are available to schedule online service calls to make sure that you're up and running productively! Whether you have big problems or small questions, please feel free to email or call PlumChoice [see below]. We're here to make sure that your computer makes your life easier, not more difficult!

Return to: Index of Questions answered by Ted Werth of PlumChoice, Inc:

          Ted Werth is a computer professional with twenty years of experience in data communications and the Internet. He owns PlumChoice, Inc., a computers service firm with headquarters in Billerica, MA. Please send questions for this column to:

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