AOL Broadband Essential Services

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• What are Viruses and how are they transmitted? »
• Do I need anti-virus protection with my broadband connection? »
• How can I protect myself from viruses? »
• How does anti-virus software work? »
• What is a firewall and how does it work? »
• What should I do if my firewall sends me an alert? »
• Does a firewall make my internet connection safe? »
• 8 top tips to help you avoid scams »

Back to top »What are Viruses and how are they transmitted?

Viruses are malicious programmes designed to destroy information on your computer or crash specific software applications.

They can be attached to emails, or get into your computer via interactive websites.

If hackers manage to break in to your computer, they too can plant viruses.

Help prevent any of the above by installing anti-hacking software (a firewall).

Without firewall software your computer is vulnerable every time you are on the internet. This means Hackers can access your computer and steal your details and, potentially, your money.

Back to top »Do I need anti-virus protection with my broadband connection?

Yes. If you access the internet on your computer, you must get anti-virus protection - particularly if you browse the internet for long periods of time.

Back to top »How can I protect myself from viruses?

The best way to fight viruses is with anti-virus software. This automatically scans your emails and will warn you if there are corrupted files attached before you open them.

Never open or download files from an unknown or untrustworthy source.

If your anti-virus software doesn’t check your computer automatically, it’s a good idea to run the software regularly so you can check for any viruses that may have got into your computer by other means; such as infected disks.

Back to top »How does anti-virus software work?

Anti-virus programs check your computer for all known viruses, examine your incoming files and warn you about infections.

If any of the above are spotted, anti-virus software will kill the infections and repair or clean suspicious files.

Back to top »What is a firewall and how does it work?

Firewall software prevents unauthorised access to your computer whilst you are online.

When you install a firewall, you can choose internet programs you’d like access to and put restrictions in place for ones which you don’t.

Do not install more than one type of firewall software on your computer at the same time - they can conflict with each other and cause problems.

You won’t notice your firewall running - it scans internet traffic silently whilst you browse. If it detects suspicious activity - you will be notified and prompted to take action, or it will automatically block unauthorised attempts to access your computer.

Back to top »What should I do if my firewall sends me an alert?

Your alert will probably tell you that an unknown program is requesting to be connected to the internet. You will just need to confirm that access to the internet is allowed.

Don’t recognise the program? Find out more about it before you decide to give it access to the web.

If you have any doubts whatsoever, deny the request until you know more about it. If you’re sure you don’t know the program and you don’t want it; tick do not show me this message again on the pop-up prompt.

Back to top »Does a firewall make my internet connection safe?

Firewalls provide great protection for your computer when they are set up properly. However, nothing guarantees you 100% protection.

Get anti-virus protection too - be extra safe.

Back to top »8 top tips to help you avoid scams

1. The online technical support agent

   Someone poses as an AOL Broadband rep and claims they can help you with password problems, telephone line noise, hackers and more. Really, they want to gain access to your personal details and they may use this for fraud related crimes.

   Important: Do not provide any information because a genuine AOL rep will never ask for your password.

2. The billing or conditions of service agent

   Fake agents will try to enquire about your AOL account via instant messages and could ask for your full credit card number. If in doubt, call Member Services on 0844 499 5555 (BT landlines cost a fixed rate of 5p. Calls from mobiles and other networks may vary).

3. Trojan horse programs

   ’Trojans’ arrive in your mailbox as attachments disguised as software, screensavers, photos and other free products. If you download one of these attachments, it may contain a damaging virus or capture your password and send it to the hackers email address.

   If you receive a suspicious email with an attachment - do not download it.

4. Junk email

   This is any form of advertising or promotional material which disguises itself as an email. They can carry dangerous Trojan horse programs. Only open mail from trusted and known senders.

5. Contest scams

   These try to trick you into providing your credit card details or personal information in order to receive a fake prize. Often the scammer will say that these details are needed to cover shipping costs. If you hand over your details the scammer can make purchases with your card or alter your personal information. To add insult to injury - you won’t receive a prize either.

6. Chain letters and petitions

   Chain letters ask you to forward a specific message to others and often promise health, wealth or good luck.

   Petitions ask you to forward a message to others to demonstrate support for a cause.

   Both of the above may give your email address to people who will send you more spam and increase your chances of receiving dangerous viruses.

7. File requests and attachments

   Often under the pretence of pictures, games or an electronic greeting, some email and instant message scams try to persuade you to download files to your computer. These files often contain damaging viruses or, they can send your password to others who can gain access to your account. Don’t download any files that you are unfamiliar with or from unknown sources.

8. Pyramid schemes

   These ask you to send money to someone. In return your name and address are placed on a list - your name is meant to reach the top of the list and others will send you money. Surprise surprise - they don’t.