Much has been communicated online about the Conficker worm. It affects Windows operating systems and takes advantage of serious vulnerabilities. Users who practice sound security practices have nothing to fear, although it is generally thought that infected machines will be particularly affected on April 1, 2009.
eWeek magazine has a useful article on Conficker.
Microsoft has published instructions on how users can protect themselves from the Conficker worm. Microsoft has also prepared an image describing the worm:
Using OpenDNS can increase your protection against Conficker and other worms, because OpenDNS monitors DNS traffic and can block suspicious activity at the gateway level.
If you are using a Windows machine, make sure you are running current anti-virus and anti-malware software. You should also verify that your Windows updates are current.
Norton 360 is available in a 90-day free trial and provides excellent protection.