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Simple Steps
to Protect against Virus Infection |
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With over 500 new viruses appearing
each month it is essential that your
business and home computers have
proper virus protection in place.
Virus infection can result in damaged
hardware, downtime and the loss of
valuable, often irreplaceable data.
However, there are some simple steps
that can be followed to protect your
system from these risks.
1) Install the latest virus protection
software
To protect against viruses, it is
essential that you have the latest
virus protection software installed
on each of your computers (note that
the full version is required - downloadable
versions are usually not adequate).
Only use Virus Protection software
with a reputation for reliability
(for advice, please contact Synaxis).
If you currently use virus protection
software, ensure that you keep it
up to date by regularly downloading
the latest virus definitions (to
save time and further reduce your
risk, set your computer to do this
automatically for you).
2) Know your source
Refrain from opening any email attachments
(especially .vbs or .exe files) unless
you know what it is and whom it is
from. Many viruses spread through
the users email address books; therefore
it is possible to receive a virus
from a trusted friend or colleague.
If you suspect that an attachment
contained in your email is suspicious,
it wise to leave the attachment unopened
until you have checked the content
with the sender.
Microsoft have made available an
update that will prevent programs
from automatically accessing your
Outlook Address Book and Contact
list or from sending messages on
your behalf. This feature helps you
to block viruses attempting to distribute
themselves via your Outlook address
books.
To download the update, visit http://office.microsoft.com/downloads/
2000/Out2ksec.aspx. Please read
the instructions carefully as there
are several steps and prerequisites.
If you are unsure as to how to install
the update please call the Synaxis
Helpdesk on 09 833 7003 for assistance
over the phone.
3) Avoid suspicious subject headings
If the subject heading is unexpected
or suspicious DO NOT open the attachment.
If you feel that the attachment must
be opened, firstly save the file
to a floppy disk or your desktop
and then scan the file with your
virus protection software.
5) Download files at your own
risk
Be careful when downloading files
from the Internet. Verify that the
website is both legitimate and reputable,
and then ensure that your virus protection
software checks files immediately
after downloading them.
6) Create a back up of your entire
system
Ensure that you have a recent, complete
back up of your data to protect against
data loss in the event of a virus
infection.
For pricing and information on a
Virus Protection solution suitable
for your business network or home
computer, please contact Synaxis
on 09 833 7003. |
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