Get the latest Java (6.25) at:
http://javadl.sun.co...?BundleId=41723
Save it to your PC then close all browsers and install it. Make sure you don't have any old versions installed.
Also make sure you have the latest versions of any adobe.com products you use like Shockwave, Flash or Reader.
Whether you use adobe reader, acrobat or fox-it to read pdf files you need to disable Javascript in the program. There is an exploit out there now that can use it to get on your PC. For Adobe Reader: Start, All Programs, Adobe Reader, Edit, Preferences, Click on Javascript in the left column and uncheck Enable Acrobat Javascript. OK. Close program. It's the same for Foxit reader except you uncheck Enable Javascript Actions.
I recommend you install the free WinPatrol from http://www.winpatrol.com/download.html
It's a small program that will sit in your systray and warn you if something tries to make changes to your system.
If you use USB drives you might want to install Autorun Eater v2.5.
http://download.cnet...4-10752777.html
Another small program which will stay resident and prevent an infected USB drive from infecting your PC. MS has recently disabled the Autorun feature so this may not be necessary but it's a simple change to get it back.
If you use Firefox (and you should) then get the AdBlock Plus Add-on.
The equivalent to AdBlock Plus for IE is called Simple Adblock and you should install it too: Adhttp://simple-adblock.com/
WOT (Web of Trust) is another you might want to try.
If you can stand it NoScript will make your browser a lot safer but there is a lot of user interaction required.
If Firefox is slow loading make sure it only has the current Java add-on. Then download and run Speedy Fox.
http://www.crystalidea.com/speedyfox
(Keep this one on your desktop and run it anytime there is a change to Firefox like a new add-on or update.)
Be warned: If you use Limewire, utorrent or any of the other P2P programs you will almost certain be coming back to the Malware Removal forum. If you must use P2P then submit any files you get to http://virustotal.com before you open them.
If you have a router, log on to it today and change the default password! If using a Wireless router you really should be using encryption on the link. Use the strongest (newest) encryption method that your router and PC wireless adapter support especially if you own a business. See http://www.king5.com...-120637284.html and http://www.seattlepi...ted-1344185.php for why encryption is important. If you don't know how, visit the router maker's website. They all have detailed step by step instructions or a wizard you can download.
Make sure windows Automatic Updates are working and let them install by themselves in the middle of the night. Just warn him not to leave his term paper up overnight since windows may need to reboot and he might lose unsaved changes.
Ron
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