Q. I'm a little paranoid about getting
a virus through spam. What if I were to use an
Internet-based e-mail account like Yahoo! or
Hotmail? The e-mail account would not be on my
machine. Would that further insulate me from viruses?
A. Well, you can't be too careful, can
you? There is an incredible number of threats out
there. If just one gets through, it could be lights out
for your data.
Most of these little horrors arrive via spam. Actually,
they arrive via attachments in the spam. If you avoid
reading spam, you're safe. Failing that, if you ignore
attachments, you should be OK.
But I can understand your concern. And as you
suspected, you are safer with the Web systems.
Both Yahoo! and Hotmail scan e-mail for viruses.
Other Web mail systems probably offer that service,
too. So, assuming you have antivirus software on
your computer, you're doubly protected.
Of course, you have no control over that Web-based
antivirus program. So, don't assume that it is always
up-to-date. You wouldn't want to start opening
attachments willy-nilly. And don't let your antivirus
software lapse. Every computer should be protected
with a program.
I have a Web mail account. But it isn't to avoid spam
and viruses. I like having access to my e-mail
everywhere.
If you haven't gotten the backup religion, it's time!
Avoid the frustration of losing important data in a
computer crash.
These tips may or may not contain links to sites
on the Internet owned and operated by third parties.
PC Alternatives, Inc. is not responsible for the
availability of, or the content located on or through,
any such third-party site. Information in this
document is provided "as is" without warranty of any
kind, either expressed or implied, including but not
limited to the implied warranties of merchantability,
fitness for a particular purpose and freedom from
infringement. The user assumes the entire risk as to
the accuracy and the use of this document. We will
not be liable for any damages of any kind arising from
the use of this information, including, but not limited
to direct, indirect, incidental, punitive, and
consequential damages. Reprinted with permission.
Copyright 2006 WestStar TalkRadio Network.
Subscribe to Kim Komando's free e-mail newsletters
at: www.komando.com
