As you have learned, many phishing attempts start by exploiting a vulnerability in a desktop computer or Web server and gaining access to email addresses.
To reduce the chance that you might unwittingly aid and abet phishing scammers, be sure to install and maintain anti-virus software to protect your computers.
You should also have firewall software. Firewalls make you invisible on the Internet and block all communications from unauthorized sources.
Plus, don't forget to apply critical security patches to your office suite and to your operating system.
As a final step in your computer hygiene program, it's also a good idea to install anti-spam software. Most anti-spam packages include email filters that will automatically cull out phishing emails before they ever reach your inbox.
