Running the Windows update utility will patch your computer so that the worm can not infect it. Basically hackers find a hole in windows and then write a worm to exploit it.. keeping your computer patched means it won't be vulnerable.
You can run windows update by clicking on the start button and looking for it toward the top of the list. If it isn't there, use internet explorer and go to microsoft.com and click on Windows Update (in the left tool bar under Resources) Click on Scan for updates, when it is done click on Install. Some updates have to be installed seperately.. so when it is done, let it restart and go back to the windows update, let it scan again it will tell you if there is more to install or if you are all done. It will be time consuming if you have dial up-- but it is still very worth it.
It is really important to do this often -- atleast once a month, and definately if you hear/read anything about a new worm or virus, especially if you have broadband (DSL, cable modem). There is more at stake than just your computer -- infected computers are used in DoS attacks, they are used to infect other computers and are used to send spam.
You can also get a personal firewall that works with your anti-virus -- both norton and mcaffee have them. They will help give you some time to run the update when something does come out.
Best of Luck!
--Heather
(internet-security-girl)
