How to avoid internet worms

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Worm viruses - viruses that spread using the internet, usually by way of email - are becoming increasingly common. An up-to-date antivirus program is an important element in the defence against these nuisances, but some worms spread so quickly that you can receive a copy before you've had time to download an update. The following tips should help avoid infection.

1. If you need to use Microsoft Outlook or Outlook Express, install the latest security patches from Microsoft. Remember to check Windows Update regularly for news of new security patches.

2. Try to avoid attachments when sending or receiving email, because viruses are often sent this way.

3. Configure Windows so that it always shows file extensions. In Explorer, click on View, Folder Options, View tab. In the Advanced Settings list, uncheck 'Hide file extensions for known file types'.

4. Never open email attachments that have the file extensions VBS, JS, SHS or PIF. These extensions are commonly used by worms and rarely contain valid attachments.

5. Never open attachments that appear to have double file extensions, for example, somefile.txt.exe.

6. If a message from a friend or colleague seems slightly strange (an example being a message saying 'I love you' from a business acquaintance), remember to check with the sender that they really sent the email before opening any attachments in the message.

7. Never open attachments or follow links to web pages that are contained in unsolicited emails.

8. Ignore attachments that have sexual filenames, such as porn.exe. This is a common trick to tempt people into opening the attachment.

9. Don't assume that because an attachment has the icon of a harmless file type (such as TXT or JPG), the file is harmless. Check the actual file extension. EXE (executable) files can have any icon.

10. Never accept attachments from strangers in online chat systems such as IRC, ICQ or AOL Instant Messenger.

11. Never download files from internet newsgroups. These forums are often used by virus writers to distribute their new viruses.