What are the risks when downloading files?
Whenever you download a file, there is always a small risk that the file will contain a virus or a program that can damage your computer or your information. Here are some precautions you can take to help protect your computer when you download files: Install and use an antivirus program. Antivirus programs scan files before opening them and notify you if a file is potentially unsafe. Be sure to keep your antivirus program up to date. Only download files from websites that you trust. If a file contains a digital signature, make sure that the signature is valid. If it's not, don't open the file. To see the digital signature, click the publisher link in the security dialog box that Internet Explorer displays when you first download the file. The digital signature information tells you whether the file is valid or not. Be cautious of certain file types. Some file types are less safe because they can carry viruses. The main file types to avoid are program files with extensions such a