Before you download files, help protect your computer

Downloading files can include installing programs from a CD, opening pictures or links to Web sites from e-mail, copying Word documents and Excel spreadsheets from the company network, upgrading software acquired from the Web, or transferring music files from a computer half a world away.

Files you download could be just what you expect, but they might also be a vehicle for malevolent intent. Malicious software (also called Malware) is software that can harm you or your computer; it can include viruses, worms, spyware, and other unwanted programs.

Before you download files, make sure you are as protected from unwanted software as you can be.