Andrew Taylor wrote:
> "~BD~"<~BD~@nomail.afraid.com> wrote in message
> news:m5KdnfFvpqNzW4HTnZ2dnUVZ7tidnZ2d@bt.com...
>> I quote:
>>
>> "Downloading freeware, shareware, and other software from unfamiliar Web
>> sites can bring an infection to your computer. Stick with well-known
>> download libraries, such as Tucows (http://www.tucows.com/downloads) or
>> Download.com, that scan files for malware before posting them for visitors
>> to download."
>>
>> Read more:
>> http://askbobrankin.com/why_did_my_c...#ixzz1RvmQguXJ
>>
>>
>> Now then, gurus, tell me why *you* think it's no more dangerous to
>> download software than buying a CD/DVD in a pucka retail store in the
>> *real* world. Is Bob Rankin telling 'porkies'?
>>
>> I'm all ears!
>
> David, as far as I am concerned, as long as I have up to date AV software,
> and up to date security/firewall software, you are as safe as you can be.

That's the view of most folk, Andrew. Indeed, I used to think the same way!

> It would be pretty hard to be the first person to be infected, although
> obviously, this must happen to someone.

Yes - but it will most certainly happen to /many/ folk before the AV
companies get on top of things!

> There is a lot to be said about being careful on links that you click on,
> and software you download, but you have to make an informed decision as to
> whether you think it may be safe or not.

Ah-ha! *That* is the difficult part! ;-)

Cheers!