Online Virus Scans

I recommend Norton Anti-Virus (not the entire Norton System Works) to scan incoming and outgoing email in realtime, and catch other nasties that try to visit you. In these times of increasing security risks, it's a necessity. Another good (and free) virus scanner that you download and run on your own computer is AVG Anti-Virus System. Tech TV in fact recommends this over Norton, and uses it on their computers.

However, another free alternative is to use an online virus scan service. Here are some options to choose from:

• RAV AntiVirus Online Virus Scan: This has been the most thorough in my experience, catching stuff that Norton doesn't.
• Symantec (Norton) Online Security Check. More checks from Symantec.
• Trend Micro: a well-respected company for virus protection, especially in corporate applications.
• Panda ActiveScan free on-line disinfection.
• Bit Defender.
• PC Pitstop antivirus scan. More tune-ups at PC Pitstop.
  

Related sites:

• More virus support at Virginia Tech.
• You should also be running Adaware regularly to detect spyware and other hidden programs on your computer, as well as backing up your computer on a regular basis.
• Spyware checker: use this database to see if a program you have installed is classified as Spyware.
• Shields Up!: have computer expert Steve Gibson try to break into your computer and give you a report on your security weaknesses.
• Privacy.net: Have these guys report to you as much information as they can collect through your browser.
• HTTP and HTTPS anonymous proxy: hide your identity from the sites you visit at TheCloak.com
• Detect your IP with IPChicken.
• CIAC Hoax Pages: "In addition to describing hoaxes and chain letters found on the Internet, we will discuss how to recognize hoaxes, what to do about them, and some of the history of hoaxes on the Internet. "