Preventing Computer Viruses

DECLARE WAR AGAINST VIRUSES
The Virus problem is getting worse. Once opened, they can delete files on your PC and move from machine to machine with ease within your network. The removal process is tedious. Here is some steps you can use to stop these Viruses from even showing up in your email in the first place. Here are our suggestions:

1. Turn on viewing of file extensions. Open My Computer. Then locate Folder Options. This will be under the Tools or View Menu. Select the second tab - View. Now look for "Hide file extensions for known file types" and remove the Check Mark. This way you can see what kind of file attachments are being sent to you. If you ever receive an attachment ending in EXE or VBS, delete the email. Don't open it. Even if it's coming from a friend. The only exception to this is if you receive a software update from a known provider. We would usually contact you before sending you any updates anyway.

2. Keep Windows and Outlook Updated. Use Microsoft's automatic update process.

3. Use Anti Virus software and keep it current. You've heard this a thousand times, but no one seems to do it except the customers that have been wiped out. What else can we say. For a low cost / free solution, use a combination of:

Windows Firewall - comes with windows and does a descent job.
Microsoft Windows Defender - download from Microsoft
Avast Antivirus - Free for personal use.

Granted, loading all this software is time consuming and inconvenient. But believe me, the inconvenience of reformatting all your PCs and reloading all your software is worse!  If you would like us to help you update your systems, please give us a call.