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3 Steps to Protecting Your PC

Below are three simple and basic steps you can take to protect your computer against viruses, spyware, and other Internet security threats.

1. Install and use up-to-date anti-virus software.
   
   IMPORTANT: Be sure to uninstall any old or outdated anti-virus software before installing new anti-virus software.
2. Keep your Windows operating system up-to-date.
3. Use a personal firewall.

Additional recommendations include:

• NEVER open unknown or unexpected email attachments.
• Don't click on or open an unknown link or file in an instant message.
• Don't click on buttons or links in pop-up windows.
• Visit only reputable, known web sites.
• Be wary of popular "free" music and movie file-sharing programs.
• Educate yourself about a program before downloading it.
• Turn off third-party browser extensions in Internet Explorer.
• Don't run your computer as Administrator.
• Turn off file and print sharing.