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		CityNet Email Tips Be Careful with Attachments Most viruses and worms are activated when a user opens a file that comes attached to an email. You should never open an email attachment unless it is something you're expecting. Even if the email is from someone you know, proceed with caution. A friend of colleague may be infected with a virus that is spreading itself by using the contacts listed in the address book. Taking an extra few minutes to verify that an email is legitimate could save you hours it takes to clean a virus or worm from your computer. Keep your Operating System Updated This is especially important for Windows users. Virus and worm writers love to take advantage of a security vulnerability. If you keep your computer patched with the Windows updates your less likely to be infected. Anti-Virus Software There are several software programs available that will keep you somewhat protected against viruses and worms. Norton Anti-Virus, McAfee VirusScan, and AVG Anti-Virus are three popular programs. The most important thing to keep in mind with this type of software it that you must keep it updated in order to be protected. Most anti-virus software allows you to update weekly. Often a new virus or worm makes its way across the internet in hours, so even if you updated on a Monday and a new virus spreads on a Wednesday you might not be protected against it. It takes time for the anti-virus creators to define exactly what the virus or worm is and create a method to block it. If you hear about a virus or worm on the news, then you should check to see if a new update is available for your software.