Computer viruses have become more advanced. Some even pretend to offer an anti-virus application, but in reality is a virus in of itself.
Mark Wilson of BooSnap Computer Services in Cary says those viruses work because it leaves consumers powerless, unable to log onto the web, or access any computer files.
Wilson says if you pay the fee, the virus "will clean your system, then you'll get another infection a week later" but the next time the infection will be a different name.
But there are free and simple ways to make sure your family is protected while surfing the web.
Wilson says simply controlling all administrative options can save you a lot of money, especially if you have children logging on.
Scammers make themselves attractive to children by advertising a free iPod or other free items, once you click on those ads, you're computer is vulnerable.
"And as soon as you click on that, it's going to download some software that is going to give you a virus," Wilson explains.
Microsoft also offers one of several free online packages to monitor your child's computer activities. If your child tries to log onto a site that hasn't been approved, a notification email will be sent to your email account stating your child has requested to go to a blocked site. Parents can then either choose to block it or allow access to the site.
The program also allows parents to review all sites your child tried to attempt, plus and option to set time limits.
Click on the links to the right for free family safety applications.
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