Update your antivirus software. Some antivirus protection programs have a feature that will automatically link to the Internet and add new virus detection code whenever the software vendor discovers a new threat.

Scan your system regularly. It's a good idea to let your antivirus software scan your entire system frequently for viruses.

Don't open attachments. One way to prevent virus infections is not to open attachments. Even if the e-mail is from a known source, be careful. A virus may take the mailing list from an infected computer and send out new messages with a destructive payload attached. Pay close attention to the file extensions. Many viruses have a .vbs .pif, or .exe extension. However, just because an attachment does not have one of these extensions is no guarantee it's not a virus. File names can be misleading. Always scan an attached file for viruses before you open it. And unless it's a file or an image you are expecting, delete it.

Turn off the preview pane in Outlook and Outlook Express.

To help increase your e-mail security, set Outlook 2003 or Outlook Express to read all messages you receive as plain text.

Do not click on unsolicited links received in email, instant messages, web forums, or internet relay chat (IRC) channels.

Understand your browser's security settings. Go to Working with Internet Explorer 6 Security Settings* to learn what you can do to tailor Internet Explorer's Security Settings.

Stay informed. Did you know that there are virus and security alerts almost every day? Keep up-to-date on breaking viruses and solutions by bookmarking our Around Town site.

If you choose not to use EZ Armor Security Software please purchase and use virus protection software such as Norton Antivirus** or Mcafee Antivirus**. If you don't already have antivirus software on your machine, acquire some now.

Download and install the latest updates "patches" for your operating system and Internet software, including your web browser and your e-mail client. For information on patching your operating system visit the following links.**
Windows Update
3 steps to secure your PC
Frequently Asked Questions About Updating Your Computer
Questions about or problems with Windows Update
Windows Update Support Center
Apple security site
SecureMac.com

Use firewall protection. Firewalls not only keep hostile apps from entering your PC from the outside, they also block hidden or unknown software on your PC (the sort a virus could install) from connecting to the Internet without your knowledge and giving away your valuable information. Download and install FREE EZ Armor Security Software* provided by Computer Associates from Road Runner.
Please note: You must have the latest version of Flash Player** to download EZ Armor Security Software*
*Subject to terms and conditions. Road Runner reserves the right to discontinue any feature or offer at any time. EZ Armor Security Suite software must be downloaded from the Road Runner National site.
*Spam and Virus protection software not available on Macintosh computers.

Note: If you don't currently own an antivirus program and believe your computer may have become infected with a worm or virus, you can find free, online virus-scanning utilities at Trend Micro** or Panda**