SC - FW: ! URGENT Virus alert by Global Support Center

[catwho at bellsouth.net]

> 
> 
> CorwynWdwd at aol.com wrote:
> > 
> > Let me say first that I am far from a computer expert. That said, I am
> > unaware that it's possible to download a virus simply by opening mail, which
> > is mostly, if not always text. Is it possible that there may be an attached
> > file you'd have to open to download the virus? Or perhaps many corporate type
> > computers automatically download attached files?

<stepping up as an internet guru's wife>  Unfortunately there are 
computer viruses that do not need to even be opened to effect your 
computer.  All they need to do is be downloaded.  They are few and 
far between.  Do you need to worry?  Probably not much.  The two that 
my dh has had to deal with effect *only* the Microsoft Internet 
Explorer mail program.  (So if you use MSIE you might want to be a 
little cautious)  However, most of these viruses are aimed at 
particular files and information.  They might piggy back (in other 
words attach themselves to your outgoing mail without you doing 
anything) but they usually are just "nusaince" viruses.  The big key 
is don't open any attachments from people that you either don't know 
or from whom you are not expecting an attachment.  I don't read 
unsolicited e-mail anymore.  I treat it just like junk mail in my 
RL mailbox.  It goes directly into the recycle bin.  

There are several virus detection programs available that can scan 
your incoming mail and scan your system everytime you turn your 
computer on.  I use Innocutel, but Macafee is also a good one.  On 
the mailing list that I run through egroups I have the settings set 
for stipping all attachments.  Since there is a shared files area I 
figure if anyone wants to show a picture they can either post a link 
to it or put it on the shared files area.  (This also cuts down on 
the amount of html rich messages too)  

<going back to lurking>


Melbrigda
There was som deceptyon or frawdulent
induction that hath made her to condescende 
therunto

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