Q I've heard that malicious websites can infect my computer when I visit them. Can I guard against this? Margaret Pellovsky, London
A Though these attacks remain rare, they are a growing problem and tend to exploit vulnerabilities in Internet Explorer (IE). If you are concerned try a different browser such as Firefox (www.getfirefox.com) or Opera (www.opera.com). These free alternatives to IE are better products in any case. Another option is to download the free CallingID plug-in (tinyurl.com/37kfkp), which will alert you if a website is dubious.
Q I send many e-mails to people who don't receive them and vice versa. What's happening? Ann Gravells, via e-mail
A The global e-mail system is creaking due to junk e-mails, or spam, and the ever-larger attachments people send such as photos. Also, the crude steps many internet service providers take to reduce spam can block legit messages. A sensible precaution is to have several e-mail accounts to choose from in case one is temporarily in trouble.