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Your Best Defense

The best defense against virus attacks is a good offense. Without proper protection, computer worms can spread like wildfire. From minor annoyances to major epidemics meant to cripple giant Web sites, these tenacious trespassers cost us billions of dollars. Here are several tips to help you keep these troublemakers at bay.

1. Don't open any e-mail attachments that look suspicious or come from unknown senders. Be on the lookout for e-mails from people you know, but with language or style they wouldn't normally use--this should raise a red flag.

2. Install an antivirus program such as Symantec's Norton AntiVirus or McAfee's VirusScan. Take the time to install your vendor's updates on your PC.

3. Go to Symantec Security Response and McAfee.com Virus Information for the companies' latest security alerts, disinfecting instructions, and archives.

4. Stay on top of patches created by other software vendors to thwart new threats and programming vulnerabilities. By registering your software after purchase, you'll be notified by the maker when updates are available. Make sure you review and install the necessary critical updates and fixes available through Windows Update.

5. Visit other expert sites to keep up to date on virus news. Carnegie Mellon University's CERT Coordination Center is a great place to find out about the latest virus alerts and vulnerabilities. The organization publishes many statistics and offers security advice for Web site operators.

6. For detailed advice on how to deal effectively with viruses and select the best antivirus software, check out "Protect Your PC."

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