The best way to deal with viruses is to avoid getting them in the first place. Here are some suggestions that would help minimize and possibly avoid unwanted software on your computer.
- Have anti-virus software installed and make sure it's up-to-date. No sense installing software in August and not bother updating the definition files in November. Do an update once a week. If you think having more than one product installed is going to protect you even further, think again. Sometimes they can conflict. You can read more about Anti-virus Software.
- Don't click on any attachments or links from suspicious emails. Think about it. If you don't have an account with a particular bank then why would you reply to an email asking for account information from them? Emails that are allegedly from PayPal or Ebay asking for account information are hoaxes. No one asks you to verify your login and password.
- Avoid Peer-to-Peer downloading. As popular as it is, downloading MP3s or video files through software like Limewire has nailed countless people several times over. You think it's an MP3 file but it's really not. If you really want that MP3, go to iTunes and pay for it or rip from a CD.
Never give your password to anyone. Period. Sounds simple but you'd be surprised how many people make this mistake. - Make sure your data is backed up frequently . . or if possible store it on a different drive or even a memory stick (they're really cheap!).
- Surf safely. Be careful where you click.
- Securing your browser. US CERT has some great ideas on how to do this here.
- If you have a firewall, turn it on. If you don't have one, get one!
For more of my comments on viruses here.
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