Hi Fred,
Sorry to learn of your troubles - especially losing all your important data

Just a few comments which you may find useful in protecting your PC from the 'ner-do-wells' on the Internet.

1. If you have not already done so, install a Virus checking program on your PCs and keep it updated regularly. There is a very good one (AVG) available 'for free' here : http://free.grisoft.com/doc/2/lng/us/tpl/v5 Scroll to the bottom of the page and click on the 'avg71free......' text to download.

2. Install a Firewall on your PCs. Windows XP has a built-in firewall, which is automatically enabled if your version has Service Pack 2 (SP2) installed. However, it does have limitations and greater protection can be achieved, by installing a third party firewall. There are many firewall programs available - some of which are free to download. One example is 'Zonealarm' : http://www.download.com/3000-2092-10039884.html

3. Another useful program to include on your PCs is a Spyware remover. Two examples are 'Ad-Aware SE' : http://www.lavasoft.de/software/adaware/

and from Microsoft - Windows Defender
http://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/spyware/software/default.mspx

Both are free to download...........

Losing all your data, stresses the importance of making back-ups of your important data files, to media other than your 'C:' drive - for example to CD or DVD

------------------
Willum

[This message has been edited by Bill Norrie (edited 05-01-2006).]