Do you have an older computer? How secure is it?

Depending on its age, the computer may no longer receive updates and security "patches" and the manufacturer may not offer support for it.

"New versions of browsers have important security features that may not run on older operating systems," said Consumer Action, a nonprofit education and advocacy organization that offers news and information about privacy, including what your rights are and how to avoid scams.

"Firewalls are relatively new and are activated by default by the manufacturer on newer computers," it said. "But firewalls may not be activated on older machines. As a result, older computers with 'always on' high-speed Internet connections may be at risk for security and privacy breaches."

The organization has teamed up with Microsoft to publish a brochure, "Internet Safety: A computer user's guide to privacy and security." It deals with a number of computer concerns, including:

"Potential Risks for Internet Users," "Protecting Your Computer and Data," "Protecting Your Privacy from Online Marketers" and "Protecting Your Kids Online."

Its list of "Tips and Tools" includes a warning that will save computer users - and everyone they communicate with - a lot of time and trouble if they follow its advice:

"Don't forward 'chain letters' and other e-mail junk to other people, even if you think it's funny or informative. You could be seen as a spammer or, even worse, forward a destructive file to someone else.

"Check out all e-mails on anti-hoax sites - www.snopes.com or www.quatloos.com - before you hit the forward button so you don't spread 'urban myths.'"

The brochure also warns users that free music, games and other downloads often include unwanted software in the download.

In addition to its own Web site, www.consumer-action.org, more information about Internet safety can be found at:

Family Online Safety Institute, www.fosi.org, a nonprofit organization dedicated to making the Internet safer for children and their families.

On Guard Online, www.onguardonline.gov, a federal government and technology industry site that provides information and tips to promote online safety and security.

Privacy Rights Clearinghouse, www.privacyrights.org, a nonprofit organization that offers a library of information - from tips for online job seekers to how to shop safely on the Internet.

Michael Verghies of Windgap believes someone sold or gave his name and address to one of those "send-us-money" organizations.

And because of the way the solicitation envelopes are addressed, he is "absolutely certain" who is responsible for adding to the junk mail that clutters his mailbox.

"It has to be Comcast," said the retired 80-year-old maintenance supervisor for St. Joseph Container.

He said the bill Comcast sends him the middle of every month is addressed to "Mike T. Verghies." Mr. Verghies prefers Michael instead of Mike and "T" isn't his middle initial.

When the money-hustling letters started arriving and also were addressed to "Mike T. Verghies," he was sure Comcast had sold his name.

"No, we didn't," said Comcast spokesman Bob Grove. "We don't sell or give away the names and addresses of our customers. We don't know how that organization got his name and address."

When I said Mr. Verghies wants Comcast to use his full first name and correct middle initial on his billing address, something he said he hasn't been able to get Comcast to do, Mr. Grove said he would take care of it.

Beware of scam e-mails purportedly from organizations that claim to be helping earthquake victims in Chile and Haiti. Donate to only those organizations you know.

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