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COMPUTER VIRUSES: A computer virus is a program designed to spread by infecting files or areas of hard and floppy disks, and then copying itself, usually without the knowledge of the computer user. Viruses can be harmless, but most are designed to damage files or interfere with the computer's operation. Viruses are activated by opening, or executing, the file that contains the virus. In e-mails, the virus is hidden in an attachment, a file that the sender attaches to his message. The virus is activated when the attachment is opened. What can be done to protect yourself against a computer virus?

          1. First and foremost, be sure that you have a good anti-virus program installed on your computer, preferably one that scans your e-mail messages. UPDATE and USE it regularly.
          2. In addition to scanning for viruses on a regular basis, configure your software to scan every time you start your computer.
          3. Virus scan any new programs, files or floppy disks and CD-ROMS before you run or open them.
          4. Be wary of opening any files from unknown or questionable sources...this includes Word/Excel documents, downloads from non-reputable or not well-known sites (web or ftp), and executable files (files that contain .exe)
          5. Disable the feature in your E-mail or New Reader software that automatically opens attachments.
          6. Be wary of accepting files or programs during on-line chat sessions...a common way of spreading viruses.
          7. If you do get a virus, follow the instructions in your anti-virus program for cleaning or deleting it...and check the manufacturer's website for other information or tools.

For more information on viruses or on some popular anti-virus software (Norton, McAfee):

www.symantec.com www.mcafee.com www.grisoft.com

TUCOWS .... great software download site
CNET ... tech news, downloads, tips, FAQs & more
PRINTSVILLE .... projects & ideas for your printer

Please direct any comments, questions, or suggestions to
Webmaster @ flydlib@suffolk.lib.ny.us
Last updated 6/27/05