I cannot count the number of times I have had to help friends or family 'delouse' their computers or explain why they receive so much spam. (My record is wiping a computer clean of over 1,400 noxious beasts.) LGF points to a useful reminder that the Internet can not only be a pain but dangerous as well. Like all things in life, you have to work to be safe.

While I am at it, I ought to suggest one thing if you must use OE, particularly if you are a computer illiterate. First, set your opening so that OE does not go directly to the Inbox (that's Options, General, and uncheck top box labeled "When starting, go directly to Inbox.) Now when OE is done receiving mail, set the program to Offline (File, Work Offline.) Then enter your Inbox and delete junk mail.