Question: I have a PC that runs on Microsoft XP, am using Outlook Express for e-mail and have Norton Internet Security.

How do I permanently block unwanted spam? Currently I go to "message" on the toolbar of Outlook Express and hit the "block" button, but that does not work.

The same message-sender continues to send unwanted e-mails. I contacted Norton and it said it is a Microsoft issue. Please help in blocking unwanted spam.

Answer: Outlook Express might be blocking a different address every day. Spammers can make a message appear to be from "James Smith" when it's from "takingvangtage.com."

Spam robots can pick a different e-mail address every day, fooling Outlook Express every time.

Here are some suggestions for limiting your spam:

* Check the Web site of your e-mail provider. Big providers like Verizon, EarthLink, Apple, Yahoo and AOL frequently offer free spam filter software.

* Report spam to your service provider. This will help you and other people who get e-mail through your service provider.

* Install third-party spam-blocking software. A Microsoft Web page titled "Controlling Junk Mail in Outlook Express" (www.microsoft.com/windows/ie/community/columns/junkmail.mspx) points out Firetrust's MailWasher Pro as one option.

* Switch to another e-mail program. If you already use Firefox, you might want to try Thunderbird, the e-mail counterpart to the popular Web browser.

* Upgrade to full-blown Outlook. Since this is a pricey option, consider this only if you need or want the rest of the Microsoft Office suite.

Here are some suggestions for limiting unwanted e-mails. It is a further explanation of how Microsoft suggests people with an Outlook Express and Windows XP set-up.

First, make sure that you have the latest Windows updates. Microsoft is constantly adding security packs designed to protect your computer. It's best to sign up to automatically have these updates installed on your computer. Here's how:

* Click "Start," then "Control Panel."

* Depending on which Control Panel view you use, Classic or Category, do one of the following:

a. Click "System," then select the "Automatic Updates" tab, or

b. Click "Performance and Maintenance," then "System," then select the "Automatic Updates" tab.

* Click the option that you want. Make sure "Automatic Updates" is not turned off.

Second, now that you have made sure your computer is up to date, it's time to make sure your security settings are ready to block spam. Outlook Express settings are found by clicking "Tools" on the top toolbar, and then "Options." Once there, select the "Security" tab.

For the strictest security, make sure the "Restricted sites zone" circle is checked. Also check "warn me when other applications try to send mail as me," "do not allow attachments to be saved or opened that could potentially be a virus" and "block images and other external content in HTML e-mail." These settings help to protect you from getting spam while browsing online, downloading files or opening mail attachments.

If the "block images and other external content" setting is not checked, these graphic displays can let spammers know that your e-mail address is valid, which means that you might end up on more junk lists.

Remember that it is likely you still will receive some spam. The suggestions above are just meant to limit how much unwanted e-mail you receive.

E-mail gadgetress@ocregister.com and put "Help Me!" in the subject line.