Dec
17
2004
Over the past week, I have cleaned two people's/friend's/client's computers of viruses. Keeping your system clean is easy, if you follow a few simple rules.
Not only is Firefox a faster and better browser, it's not nearly as targeted as Internet Explorer for exploits. While IE has made great improvements with the recent release of SP2, it's still open to security issues. Something as innocent as clicking on a link you didn't mean to can, and in many cases does, lead to you infecting your system. Download Firefox and browse the internet the way it is meant to browsed; free of spyware and pop-up ads.
Don't click on links you don't know
Stay away from those flashy ads you see in your browser. Unless you really think you are visitor number one million to visit a site, and you have only 5 minutes to claim your prize, don't click that link! Of course, if you're running Firefox you have less to worry about, but even still, don't do it.
Install anti-virus software
I'm amazed at the amount of people I know who don't run anti-virus software. Some might argue that you could get away with not running it, and I certainly agree, but for most people it's a no-brainer. You might download what you think is a mp3 file, but if you don't know what to look for, it's easy to get tricked.
Install Firefox
Yes, I said it again.
Use an 'offline' email viewer
Installing and using a program that allows you to view your email before your email gets to your computer is a great way to stop viruses. A program like Mailwasher lets you see what emails are sitting on your email server before you download them. If one of them looks peculiar, you're able to delete it before it hits your harddrive and causes damage. Use it.
Well, thats a few simple suggestions. They might save you from a huge headache. ;)