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How to Avoid Computer Viruses

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Uploaded by on Dec 22, 2008

Expand the description and view the text of the steps for this how-to video.

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At least with a stomach virus you may drop a few pounds; a virtual virus just screws up your computer. Take these precautions to avoid problems.

To complete this How-To you will need:

Anti-virus software
Spyware
A firewall
A healthy dose of skepticism

Step 1: Install anti-virus software

Install anti-virus software that regularly updates itself. Viruses are constantly mutating into new forms.

Step 2: Keep spies out

Use a spyware scanner. This protects you from inadvertently installing a system that will help advertisers spam you by monitoring your internet use. Spyware is usually unleashed when you download a peer-to-peer file-swapping product.

Step 3: Put up a wall

Install a firewall. This software guards against online attacks from other computers.

Tip: You can find free safety software on the internet.

Step 4: Be leery of attachments

Don't open attachments unless you're absolutely sure you know who sent them. Don't even open e-mails from unknown senders.

Step 5: Check your files

Before you shut down for the day, go to "find" and check the files that were created that day. Delete any that you don't recognize.

Step 6: Don't be fooled

Don't fall for e-mails that warn you that you have a worm and urge you to download a safety program. This is a ploy to get you to install a virus!

Tip: Bad grammar and/or misspellings are often a tipoff that a virus warning is bogus.

Step 7: Always update

Don't ignore those updates that your anti-virus software manufacturer periodically offers; they will help protect your computer from viruses.

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Top Comments

  • Step One. Don't Upgrade your Computer to Vista.

  • How did i know there would be a "no porn" comment?

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  • @TheStarToad500 McAfee is not free. Also

  • @NxmbPxwer With the exception of avast! free antivirus

  • Where do I buy this "scepticism"? They mention it in half of their videos, but I can't find it in any local sore :/

  • Step One: Use a Mac

  • Step one: Turn of your computer

    Done!

  • @NxmbPxwer With the exception of Windows Security Essentials

  • Step one: DONT GET A FREE PIECE OF SH*T ANTIVIRUS!!!!!!!!!!

  • @TheMarv800 Yh, i stay off.

  • viagra.com.

  • Install Linux...solved !

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