How to Scan Downloaded Files

Do not execute software that is downloaded from the Internet unless it has been scanned for viruses. Simply visiting a compromised Web site can cause infection if certain browser vulnerabilities are not patched. For more information, see Securing Your Machine: Definitions.

Windows

Before opening any file you've downloaded you should right-click the file and select the option Scan for Viruses. A practical solution is to create a folder on your C: drive called Downloads and save everything into that. This gives you quick and easy access to your files and you'll always remember where they are saved.

Once you've put your file into Downloads, you can right click it and scan it for viruses before opening it. NEVER open files from people or sources you're unfamiliar with (whether they come from a website or an e-mail) and always scan them first!

Macintosh

Before downloading any files, you should have Norton Auto-Protect turned on. A practical solution is to create a folder on your hard drive called Downloads and save everything to that. This gives you quick and easy access to your files and you'll always remember where they are saved.

Once you've saved your files into Downloads, you can run Norton Anti-Virus and scan the folder for viruses before opening it. NEVER open files from people or sources you're unfamiliar with (whether they come from a website or an e-mail) and always scan them first!