Most Anti-Virus products will automatically keep themselves updated. From time-to-time, while you are connected to the Internet, the Anti-Virus program will check it's main server for new virus-pattern-files, and automatically download them. There are a number of things that can interfere with the automatic update processes, and leave your computer vulnerable to a virus attack. Being away from your computer for a week or more while you are on vacation. Not connecting to the Internet often enough, or when connected, not staying connected long enough, and for other technical reasons, you Anti-Virus program may not be staying up to date.

Check your Anti-Virus program to insure it is up to the latest virus-pattern-files. Each Anti-Virus software manufacture has their own method to check its condition. If you are using Trend Micro's PC-Cillin 2002 product, (The only Anti-Virus product recommended by J.R. Whipple & Associates), do the following to check it's condition. If you have another product, check your programs documentation.

Double-Click the small icon down by your clock, to open the PC-Cillin window.

        
Click the “About” tab, in the upper right of the window.

        
Compare YOUR pattern number, with the following pattern number.

If the two numbers compare, all is well. Close the windows and go about your business.

If your pattern number is less than the currnet number, please update your pattern file now!

        
Click the "Update" button, on the left.

        
Click the "Update" button, in the lower right of the window, and watch the progress indicator.

        
This dialog box indicates that PC-Cillin is already up to the latest version. Close all windows and go about your business.