1.
Most email worms
use Microsoft Outlook or Outlook Express to spread. Netscape
users rarely have problems. If you need to
use Outlook, download and install the latest Outlook security patch from
Microsoft.
In general, keep
your operating system and applications up-to-date and apply
the latest patches when they become available.
Be sure to get the updates directly from the vendor.
2.
When possible,
avoid
e-mail attachments both when sending and receiving
e-mail.
3.
Configure Windows
to always show file extensions.
In Windows 2000, this is done through Explorer via the Tools menu: Tools/Folder
Options/View - and uncheck "Hide file extensions for known file types".
This makes it
more difficult to for a harmful file (such as an EXE or VBS) to masquerade
as a harmless file (such as TXT or JPG).
4.
Never open e-mail
attachments with the file extensions VBS, SHS or PIF.
These extensions are almost never used in normal attachments but they are
frequently used by viruses and worms.
5.
Never open attachments
with double file extensions such as NAME.BMP.EXE
or NAME.TXT.VBS
6.
Do not share
your folders with other users unless necessary.
If you do, make sure you do not share your full drive or your Windows directory.
7.
Disconnect your
network or modem cable when you're not using
your computer - or just power it down.
8.
If you feel that
an e-mail you get from a friend is somehow strange - if it is in a foreign
language or if it just says odd things, double-check
with the sender before opening any attachments.
9.
When you receive
e-mail advertisements or other unsolicited e-mail, do not open attachments
in them or follow web links quoted in them.
10.
Avoid attachments
with sexual filenames. E-mail worms often
use attachments with names like PORNO.EXE or PAMELA_NUDE.VBS to lure users
into executing them.
11.
Do not trust
the icons of attachment file. Worms often
send executable files which have an icon resembling icons of picture, text
or archive files - to fool the user.
12.
Never accept
attachments from strangers in online chat
systems such as IRC, ICQ or AOL Instant Messenger.
13.
Avoid downloading
files from public newsgroups (Usenet news).
These are often used by virus writers to distribute their new viruses.
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