If you are
downloading files and uncompressing files you should be concerned about
viruses that may come with the files. Viruses will always be a problem,
which is why a good
anti-virus program is a fundamental part of your Internet security plan.
Updating your virus program and performing periodical scans is the best
way to keep viruses out of your system.
From time to time people receive e-mails with various warnings about new viruses and warnings not to read e-mails with certain subjects. Conduct a search on these viruses to see if they do exist or whether it is simply a hoax. You can not get a virus by simply reading e-mail text, even if it has an attachment that contains a virus. Opening the attachment itself is the only threat.
Yes, you will certainly want to be able to detect, identify, and remove viruses from your computer. There are many good programs available for purchase, such as Norton Anti-Virus, McAfee SCAN, and Dr. Soloman. Purchasing one of these programs is the best money you will ever spend.
For more information on Viruses, Virus Hoaxes, and Virus Protection Programs, look at these sites:
University of Northern Colorado, Greeley, CO