Security

1. Keep your operating system and applications up-to-date and apply the latest patches. Be sure to get the updates directly from the vendor.

2. Install latest security software with day-to-day updates.

3. Stay current on all Microsoft critical updates (install auto-update option so this happens automatically)

4. Open email or instant messaging (IM) attachments from trusted sources.

5. Never click on a link within email text unless you are absolutely certain you recognize the URL.

6. Configure Windows to always show file extensions. In Windows 2000, this is done through Explorer via the Tools menu: Tools/Folder Options/View - and uncheck "Hide file extensions for known file types". This makes it more difficult to for a harmful file (such as an EXE or VBS) to masquerade as a harmless file (such as TXT or JPG).

7. Delete all messages that appear to be spam before opening them.

8. Install email filters so spam never enters your inbox.

9. Avoid luring deals and surveys, they could be spams.
10. Disconnect your network or modem cable when you're not using your computer - or just power it down.

11. Do not trust the icons of attachment file. Worms often send executable files which have an icon resembling icons of picture, text or archive files - to fool the user.

12. Avoid downloading files from public newsgroups. These are often used by virus writers to distribute their new viruses.