CHATTING
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Never open, accept, or download a file in IM from someone you don't know.
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If the file comes from someone you dont know, don't open it unless you know what the file is.
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Contact the sender by e-mail, phone, or some other method to confirm that what they sent was not a virus.
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Visit Microsoft Update to scan your windows computer and install any high-priority updates that are offered to your PC.
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If you have Automatic Updates enabled, the updates are delivered to you when they are released, but you have to make sure you install them.
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Similarly, the concern software patches from Linux OS also need to be updated
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Use up-to-date version of your Instant Messenger software for a better protection of your computer against viruses and spyware.
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If you're using MSN Messenger, upgrade to Windows Live Messenger, which will block attachments that might contain malware and allow you to scan attachments for viruses.
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Similarly for other Instant Messengers like yahoo, AOL should be upgraded.
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Like e-mail viruses, instant message viruses are malicious programs that are designed to travel through IM.
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Spim is a short form of spam over instant messaging, it uses IM platforms to send spam messages over IM. Like e-mail spam messages, a spim message also contains advertisements. It generally contains web links, by clicking to on those links malicious code enters into your PC.
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Antivirus software can help to detect and remove IM viruses from your computer, only if you keep the antivirus software up-to-date.
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If you've purchased a subscription from an antivirus software company, your antivirus software may update itself when you're connected to the Internet.
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Antispyware software can help to protect your computer from spyware and remove any spyware you may already have.
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If you don't have antispyware software, you can download Windows Defender