USE CAUTION WHEN DOWNLOADING SOFTWARE FROM THE INTERNET INTERNET DIALER SOFTWARE Dial-Up members should exercise caution when downloading software from websites on the Internet. Some software downloads such as Internet Dialer software can result in long distance charges generated on your telephone line. What is Internet Dialer Software? Internet Dialer software is not a virus. It is software that you must download before it is installed on your computer. Some adult web sites, for example, offer Internet users access to photos and messages, inviting them to download special viewing software to see additional images. These messages usually initiate a pop-up window or text box that appears on your screen warning you that you will be billed for long distance calls if you proceed. If you click on "I Accept" or "I Agree" to download the viewing software, the software will then be installed on your computer and have the capability to connect with an overseas number, provided a connection exists between the computer's dial-up modem and a regular phone jack. Credit card information is not necessarily required to download this software, but long distance charges generally apply as you are responsible for all charges related to calls placed from your telephone lines. It is also possible that the dialer software that is installed on your computer may dial to overseas numbers whenever you access the Internet. This means, that long-distance calls using your dial up Internet connection may occur even when you are no longer visiting the website where you originally downloaded the software. These overseas calls may be initiated whenever you connect to the Internet. How can I protect my computer when downloading software? Before you download any software from the Internet, carefully read all online warnings and disclosure boxes ensuring that you understand all potential costs that you could incur. Turn off your computer or modem when it is not in use. If you notice your computer dialing a number that you do not wish to dial, cancel the connection. Be aware who is using your computer, when they are online and what sites they are visiting. Parents should regularly monitor children's online activities to ensure that they are not visiting unfamiliar sites or downloading inappropriate material or unwanted computer programs. You may want to consider installing a parental control program that monitors the sites children visit and blocks them from visiting inappropriate web sites. How do I remove Internet Dialer software from my computer? In order to remove the installed software from your computer, you must know the name of the program you downloaded. You can then run a check and remove any Spyware that may have been installed on your computer. Sypware refers to a number of non-destructive programs that may be installed without your knowledge when you install other software from the Internet. Spyware programs may gather information about your computer and the Web sites you visit, and then send this information back to the creator of the program. Such programs will also use your computer's resources and your Internet connection. Once you identify the software program name, you can use a Spyware remove tool that will perform a one-time check for popular Spyware programs. We recommend that you run this check on a regular basis. A popular program for detecting Spyware is available from Ad-aware. This program offers a one-time check for popular Spyware programs. Learn more about Internet Dialer Software. Phonebusters.com Reporting Economic Crime Online (RECOL)