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About Fake Viruses
Never,
never, never delete any files just because you receive an email telling you
to. Chances are it is a fraud. If
you do what it tells you to do you will probably be deleting files that your
computer needs to run properly. First check to see if it is real or a
hoax. Try the
Virus Encyclopedia
Virus Activity
There are currently a lot of viruses being distributed attached to
emails. Possibly it is because everyone is sending us email with
attachments; e-mail cards, sound files, humorous pictures, etc.
Here is how you
can feel safe:
1. Our mail server scans
all your WestPA.net email for viruses and stops them from getting to
your computer. This is a great "first line of defense" against the
vast majority of viruses.
2. Install
anti-virus software and update virus definitions weekly. Make sure it is set to
automatically scan all files that are opened or saved, including email attachments. Anti-virus software if
properly set-up, updated and run regularly will nearly eliminate your
chances of infecting your computer.
3. Don't
necessarily believe what you get in email. If a hoaxer can get you
to delete your own system files yourself he has accomplished the same
thing as a virus would.... except you are going to feel very foolish
for falling for it.
Internet Scams and Hoaxes.
The internet is flooded
with scams and hoaxes.
Don't fall
victim
to get rich quick schemes
or requests for personal or financial information. If it seems too good to be true ... it probably is.
Additional Info:
There are a number of
sources for antivirus programs. Norton, eTrust, and McAfee all
provide reasonably priced products that can be purchased on-line or in
many stores.
You can check out Anti-Virus products and read about any of thousands of
identified viruses at these sites:
Norton
http://www.symantec.com/avcenter/
McAfee
http://www.mcafee.com/
eTrust
http://www1.my-etrust.com/
Remember that your best defense against computer viruses is to avoid
getting them. With our mail server scanning email for viruses and your
properly installed, updated and active anti-virus software, you can have
a lot less stress as you surf and retrieve your email with confidence.
NOTE:
Remember that viruses are generally sent without the knowledge of the
person. Their computer is infected. Take a minute to email them and make
them aware of the problem. Do it kindly and they will thank you. They
become one less source of virus activity.
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