Technology Corner

Sending E-cards

E-cards are a great way to say �hello!� in an extra special way. There are many e-card websites out there � everyone has their own favorite.

Unfortunately, many of the major e-card websites are not compliant with the e-Buddies E-mail System. In some cases, your e-card may not be delivered to your e-Buddy properly. In other cases, your e-card may reveal your personal contact information, which against e-Buddies rules.

After testing several different websites, we found that www.e-cards.com is fully compliant with our e-mail system. If you are itching to send your e-Buddy an e-card, check it out!

Security Reminder: E-mail Attachments

Just a quick reminder: according to the e-Buddies Code of Conduct, e-Buddies participants are not permitted to send e-mail attachments to their e-Buddy.

One reason for this is that e-mail attachments can sometimes contain computer viruses; by clicking on any e-mail attachment, there is a risk that you could be exposing your computer to a virus.

Before you open ANY attachment, always make sure that you are certain that the attachment was sent from someone you know. If possible, scan that file with a fully updated anti-virus program. Never open attachments that you aren�t expecting to receive!

Free Anti-Virus Software

Need an anti-virus program for your computer, but you can�t afford to purchase expensive software? Here are a couple of FREE options!

Grisoft�s AVG Free is a free anti-virus private, non-commercial use in your home. It can scan incoming and outgoing e-mails and perform periodic scans of your computer. To download a copy, please visit:

http://free.grisoft.com/

If you don�t want to download and install any full anti-virus software, you can use Trend Micro�s House Call. House Call is a free, online e-mail scanner that will check your computer for viruses. You can scan your computer at:

http://housecall.trendmicro.com/

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Have an e-Buddies tech question? Send questions or comments to Bill Maurer at BillMaurer@bestbuddies.org.