Protect your PC from malware

The amount of malicious software on the Web has increased greatly recently. Here are some guidelines to help protect yourself:

• Practice Safe Browsing.
• Avoid unfamiliar or untrusted Web sites, especially Web sites that advertise "too good to be true" deals.
• Don't install unfamiliar third-party toolbars. WindowsIT Pro magazine recommends you use only the MSN toolbar or the Googletoolbar.

A few other tips from Windows IT Pro...

• Configure your email program to read messages in "Plain text", not HTML or Rich Text.
  This avoids possibly activating malicious software
• Use your browser or a browser add-in such as the Google Toolbar to block pop-ups.
  Only allow pop-ups from pages where you really need them.
• Only install updates from trusted sites.
  Some people have been burned by installing an "update" that arrived by email. Don't.
• Do keep your system and programs updated.
  Many software programs need security-related updates too.
• Use caution with IM -- bad guys abound. Don't automatically click on a link you receive, even if it seems to be form someone you know.
• Always run virus protection.

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