Computer viruses have been running rampant lately. Many of our users have been struck by viruses, and my own anti-virus software has been catching the ugly critters left and right. Make sure you update your anti-virus software AT LEAST once a week. If you don't have anti-virus software, get some! Two of the big anti-virus software providers are McAfee http://www.mcafee.com and Norton http://www.norton.com. Don't assume that if a friend sends you a file that it is safe to open - they may have the virus and not know it.

To complicate matters, InfoWorld reports that PDF files, long considered safe by Internet Explorer (and by most people), may now carry a virus. You should back up your important files frequently. The more you rely on computers for your livelihood, the more care you should take in protecting your important information.

This is a great issue this week, including the next installment of Craig Stark's "How to Sell Books Online" series, and David's review of a FREE auction management software tool. I review some of the useful tools and resources on the AuctionBytes Web site. Next issue, I'll be checking out uBid. This is an interesting auction site, and it's worth taking a closer look at it.

Beth Kagel is moderating a new forum about vintage cameras. Beth is an experienced photographer who loves to work with vintage cameras to create fine art. She collects all types of vintage cameras. She encourages both amateur and professional photographers to broaden their creative horizons by experimenting with 19th and 21st century technology. Check out Beth's new forum and ask a question at http://www.auctionbytes.com/forum/phpBB/index.php.

Thanks to everyone who visited the newly improved forums on the AuctionBytes Web site. There are some interesting discussions going on.

Enjoy the rest of the summer!

Ina Steiner, Editor email: ina@auctionbytes.com