Best practices for avoiding viruses / adware and spyware

1) Keep your Windows Operating Systems Up to date with the latest patches. 
2) Keep your AntiVirus and Security software on your workstations up to date. 
3) Never open an attachment to an email from someone you do not know. 
4) Never open an attachment to an email from someone you know that looks suspicious in any way. (Check with them to see if they really sent it to you) 
5) Always save attachments before opening them to allow anti-virus and malware blockers to scan the attachment as it is being saved. 
6) Always back up both your database and your application code. 
7) Avoid websites with questionable content/material. 
8) Bookmark your favorite websites, and only use Bookmarks to access them. 
9) Don’t click on links within a suspicious email.