Some of these e-mail messages describe a "Cumulative Security Update for Internet Explorer" that fixes a critical security flaw in the browser. It comes with a link entitled "Download this update."

When users click on this link, they are taken to a server that attempts to install malicious software known as Trojan-Downloader.Win32.Agent.avk.

This Trojan software attempts to reach out to other computers on the Internet in order to install more programs on the victim's computer.

This process turns your computer into a zombie that spends much of its resources doing bad things in the background instead of doing what you want it to. These schemes sap the speed on your PC and tries to infect everybody in your contact list.

More can be learned from the "Internet Storm Center". This site monitors various types of shady internet activity, globally.

Yahoo is helping to make people aware of this threat in this article.

A large portion of internet security relies on users policing their own computers. If we wanted some kind of entity to get into our computer to check for malicious code on a regular basis we would voluntarily sacrifice our own privacy rights.

If common end users don't take steps to stop these kind of problems, we could possibly be helping to hand over our personal online privacy and security.

Personally, I used a firewall so bad elements can't get in as easy, then follow up with a good virus program. ZoneAlarm is a good firewall that's easy to use and comes in a free flavor. I also use a free virus program called AVG. These programs take up memory (ram) on your computer. If you need a good excuse to buy more memory to help your computer run faster, the use of programs like these help give you a good justification for spending money on more memory. :)

For a good scrubbing, CCleaner will go thru your computer and delete then over-write any suspicious remnants of a surfing session. Optionally, it also clean out your Recycle Bin, History, Recent Documents, etc.

I would also recommend using a more secure browser such as Firefox. Firefox will give you the option of cleaning out your surfing history every time you use it.

Taking steps like theses will help protect YOU and your computer. If you choose not to take preventative steps, you may one day be OWNED.