How To Disable JavaScript and ActiveX In Your Email Software

In addition to applying necessary security patches to Internet Explorer, Outlook and Outlook Express on a regular basis, you should "harden" your email software by disabling the capability of scripts and other programs to run automatically.

Netscape users also need to do this.

Ensure the propoer security settings by following the instructions for whichever software you use for email:

Outlook and Outlook Express
Set the Restricted Sites security zone to disable all ActiveX and Java. Do this from Internet Explorer by selecting the following menu items:

Tools | Internet Options | Security | Restricted Sites | Custom Level

NOTE: Just setting the restrictions to High will not work. If you are unable to follow this step, it may be a good idea to ask an experienced friend for assistance.

Basically, you need to set everything that says ActiveX, Java, Download, Install and Launch to "Disable".

After making the necessary changes to the Restricted Zone, you will need to add Outlook or Outlook Express to the Restricted Zone by doing the following:

Open Outlook Express or Outlook (if not already open)

On the menu, click Tools | Options | Security

Then, simply select the "Restricted Zone".

Netscape Mail
Users of Netscape mail have it a bit easier...

Select Edit | Preferences from the menu
Choose Category | Advanced
Remove the "X" next to "Enable Javascript for Mail and News"
Click "OK"