Facebook, MySpace, Hit With Virus

It was only a matter of time. Popular social networking Websites Facebook and MySpace, have reportedly been hit with a virus that sends an infected message to people appearing to come from one of their "friends". The message asks that the member click on a link to watch a video on YouTube. Supposedly the fake redirect site is really convincing, even including the name and profile photo of the perceived sender.

This virus totally nullifies heeded warnings not to open e-mails from unknown senders since the e-mail masks itself as originating from someone you do know. We have come to a point where you're almost always flinching as you open an attachment, fearful that it might harm your PC and compromise sensitive personal or business information.

The best advice? Invest in a well-known anti-virus application, and make sure that updates are constantly downloaded. And always keep yourself informed about the latest viruses and hacks by reading reports (like this one!)

While the Web and all that it can offer can be tempting, never believe everything you read. When in doubt, pick up the phone and call the perceived sender of an e-mail to ensure that he really did send you something before you open it. The extra minute it takes to do this will be worth the avoidance of a whole lot of worry and headache.