For Safety's Sake

How safe is your computer? Could you be in danger of getting a virus on your system? Just how real is the danger? What steps should you take if any?

While visiting with a Computer Tutor client, I became aware that her anti-virus software was over seventeen months old and had never been updated. Upon informing her that she should update her anti-virus software regularly, she was totally surprised. Furthermore she had no concept how essential this was to ensure her system's safety. Therefore I thought it wise to write about some of the precautions you should take in order to minimize the chances of becoming infected with acomputer virus.

While there are many 'virus' hoaxes, and please do not pass any of these hoaxes on as these themselves many times contain viruses, computer viruses do pose a very real danger. Therefore I've listed a few preventative measures that you should take to ensure computer safety.

1. Do install an anti-virus software program and update it regularly (preferably weekly) as there are new viruses discovered on a daily basis. If you are not updating perpetually, it is like having an insurance policy and never paying the premiums. In no time at all it would be worthless.

2. Be wary of email from strangers. Never open an email with an attachment from a source that is unknown or suspicious. It is even wise to exercise caution when it is from someone you know. I have developed a habit that if a friend forwards something from a third party, I save it to a floppy disk and then I can scan it for viruses before opening it to my hard drive.

3. Do exercise caution when downloading files from the Internet. Be sure to download from well known and reputable sources. Ascertain that your anti-virus software is set to scan files while you are downloading. I have that feature enabled in my anti-virus program and it scans all files when I am in the process of downloading, and it has on occasion prevented me from downloading when there appeared to be danger, warning me of the probability of a virus. These programs work so take advantage of the security your anti-virus software will provide by using these safety features.

4. Remember that new viruses are discovered every month. Be sure to back up your files on a regular basis. In this way, if a virus should ever invade your system and your files become corrupted you will be able to replace them with your backup copies.

5. Lastly apply the little rule, 'When in doubt do without'. If you are uncertain, whether it is with an unknown source in your email or a web site that offers a download, then best not to take a chance.

Remember for the most part, the Internet offers us an array of software and services that are safe and secure. Yet it would be unrealistic to assume that there is no danger of computer viruses. There are always those who would want to do harm. By observing these few guidelines you can minimize the threat of a computer virus. ------------------------------------------------------- Doran Roggio is a writer and an Internet Marketer. Visit her web page for more free articles,computer tips, Freeware/Shareware, Free ebooks, Free IT tutorials, marketing tips, resources, and business opportunities. http://www.dolosa.com

Dunkin' Donuts Cuts Hours For Safety's Sake (CBS4 Miami)
Dunkin' Donuts shops are locking down their lobbies after a string of violent robberies targeted stores in Delray Beach, Sunrise and Tamarac.  To protect workers and customers alike, some shops are closing their doors earlier and turning to the drive-through.

Legal prostitution, for safety's sake (Massachusetts Daily Collegian)
In the name of killing the sanctity of marriage, let's throw enemy number two - prostitution - in the ring. There is no such thing as the sanctity of marriage and there never really has been.

Stay off the ice for now, officials warn (The Journal Times)
RACINE COUNTY — Looks can be deceiving when it comes to frozen bodies of water.

Laws ban dumping snow in roadway (Daily Chronicle)
DeKalb County has yet to see any snow accumulation, but with the start of the winter season upon us, officials are urging people to be careful where they put the white stuff soon to cover driveways and walks.

Youth say new legislation a tough corner to turn (Goderich Signal-Star)
Photo used with appreciation. For safety’s sake it’s understandable, but many young drivers are feeling unfairly treated by proposed new driving legislation.

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