How did I get that???

A lot of times users are confused about where their security problems come from...what happened...who did this to me....etc.  Do you to these things?

1. Do you surf the Internet without using a firewall program?  There are alot of programs you can use, for example, ZoneAlarm is free for presonal use.  These programs must be trained with what may or may not access your computer (programs, websites, etc.) but can be extrememly helpful in the fight against malware and viruses.
2. Do you ever update and run your antivirus program or your anti-spyware programs?  You should update and run these WEEKLY, not just when you have a problem or suspect that you've become infected!  Programs like Symantec Endpoint, Malwarebytes Antispyware, etc. are very helpful when it comes to fighting an infestation, however, you have to update and use them first!
3. Do you open every attachment you get in an email or from an instant message?  Those are some of the most common places to hide viruses.  What's especially nice about those in an email or an IM program such as AOL Instant Messenger or MSN Messenger is that usually attack your address book...sending the virus on to everyone you have in your contact lists/buddy lists.
4. Do you click on everything?  Have you ever received a link from a friend in your IM program and clicked on it without really knowing what it was or why it was sent...maybe the link was proceeded with "Check this out!" and you clicked?  Or you saw something cool on MySpace or Facebook and clicked it?  Those are more prime spots for viruses and malware and common infestation points!
5. Do you file share?  Do you use P2P programs such as Limewire, Bittorrent, Frostwire, etc.?  If so you're in trouble on two counts.  First, most of the items shared on these programs are illegal and you can be caught and fined for that.  Secondly, these shares are full of viruses and malware that will absolutely destroy your system and important files.
6. Do you use a whimpy password or the exact same password for all of your accounts?  If so you're opening your door to hackers!  Be sure your passwords are long (8+ characters), no words/names/common numbers like a phone number or birthdate, etc. and that EVERY account you have (every email account, every login to a social networking site like MySpace or Facebook or Twitter) all have DIFFERENT passwords.  You can use a program like KeePass to keep all your passwords in one safe location and only have to remember one to open that program to see all the others, in case you forget.