Computer Tip – Watchout Opening Email Attachments – Even From Friends!

I had a customer recently that got infected after opening an e-mail attachment from a friend. They had been exchanging updates to a document, but in the last email, the attachment’s extension somehow had been changed & the attachment would not open. My customer clicked/searched online to find an appropriate program & then got infected.

Here is an example of what happened:
Normal Microsoft Word Attachment – Document.doc
Attachment With Wrong Extension – Document._doc

Once the viruses/spyware were cleaned out, we were able to Save As the document to the desktop, rename the extension & then the document opened just fine!

Also, I am sure you all know that UPS, FedEx, IRS, banks, etc. won’t be sending you notices about a package or items unless you are expecting something from them, so DO NOT OPEN ATTACHMENTS FROM BUSINESSES UNLESS YOU DO BUSINESS WITH THEM! Always use caution!

About the Author: Ray Bowyer, Computer Consultant

Ray Bowyer, Computer Consultant lives & works in the Boise, Idaho area & provides computer desktop & laptop repair, training, problem solving, computer networking, & virus removal for Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Caldwell & other Treasure Valley Idaho area small businesses, home offices & home computer users. Phone: (208) 631-7527. Email: consultant@raybowyer.com . Mailing Address: 1740 E. Fairview Ave., # 305, Meridian, ID 83642. Computer Repair & Services - Boise Idaho - Meridian Idaho. "Reducing computer frustration one problem at a time by providing computer TLC(Technical Loving Care)!"