InBox

By DON McALLISTER

Welcome to InBox, where we attempt to answer your internet questions.

Q. Jo has been receiving a popup message entitled "System Update" that claims her internet activity is being monitored and offering her an "Update" to protect her.

A. It's just another marketing scam designed to capitalise on paranoia, Jo.

Discussion groups claim that once installed it messes with bank account access and sometimes internet connections. I suggest you steer well clear and download the popular anti-spyware software Spybot Search and Destroy. Install it and then download the latest Spybot updates. Running this should remove all trace of that window.

* * *

Q. Has the closure of Microsoft chat groups bounced messages to your hotmail account? Brad has experienced an increase and reckons that's the cause.

A. If you're getting the same problem email InBox and tell us what can be done about it.

* * *

Q. Gary writes: "In the last few days I've installed several programs, one of which seems to have stopped any links from working in Internet Explorer. What can I do to fix it?"

A. Microsoft has identified many possible causes, Gary, and has created a page that explains each possible cause and remedy. Go to Microsoft support.

* * *

Q. "My computer complains 'Invalid system' disk when I try to start it," says Doreen.

A. Press the eject button on the floppy drive, Doreen. I'll bet your grandchildren forgot to take their disk out.


* Email us your question about computers