Virus Information & Support

• Symantec Security Check

Keep your virus software updated OFTEN, even daily. If you do not have any virus software, it's imperative you get one. We recommend the following:

• Norton AntiVirus (www.symantec.com)

Check this virus information page often - for new threats and hoaxes.

If you get caught with a virus, but do not have any virus software, you can bring your computer into our shop for a virus removal.

Keep your Computer's Operating Software updated. If you use Windows, make sure you have the Windows AutoUpdate turned on. Although it may be an annoyance, it could save you a lot of time and hassle. Download and install all of the security updates and patches for any programs you use, as well as the vital windows security patches. It's hard to get into a computer if it's not vulnerable.

NEVER open any email from a person you do not know. Attackers are very clever in the way they state their email subjects, making you think it might be from someone you know. Always read the FROM address. If you do not know it, delete it.  If it is important, they will try to contact you again, or another way. If you have a business and do not want to miss a potential email, then set up an exclusive email box just for your business inquiries.

SPAM FIGHTING TIPS:

Try not to use your email on forms or when purchasing items. If you must, get a free hotmail or yahoo account to use for filling out such forms. Check it occasionally to keep it active, but consider it your junkmail address.

NEVER open any email from a person you do not know. Spammer are very clever in the way they state their email subjects, making you think it might be from someone you know. Simply by opening an email, can let them know it is a valid account. If you use Outlook or Outlook Express, turn your preview pane off - as this is the same as downloading and opening the email.

Do NOT click on the "unsubscribe" links. This usually is another way for a spammer to verify that they've reached a valid email address. Unless it is a company you know well and trust, or it is something you signed up for, leave it alone.

If you have a website, do not post your email address on it. Today's spamming software is so sophisticated and hardworking, it scans the internet, going through thousands of sites looking for valid email addresses or mailto: commands in websites. We recommend using an image with your email address on it that is not linked, or scrambling your email address so the search bots cannot read it.