I have a question about my PlayStation 3. If I connect it to the Internet, can it get a virus?

Video game consoles are more and more like computers. All three major consoles (Playstation 3, Xbox 360 and Wii) connect to the Internet. You have to protect your computer on the Internet. Is the same true for your video game consoles?

Technically, any Internet device can encounter malware. But there's a second question you need to ask. Has a game console ever gotten a virus? The answer is no.

Theoretically, video game consoles could be targeted. Criminals have long compromised individuals' poorly protected computers. These zombies are roped into armies, and used to attack commercial sites.

The consoles are generally connected to the Internet full-time. So, they certainly could be compromised. Furthermore, there is no security software for them. Even if you perceive a threat, you can't protect them.

However, it hasn't happened yet. The bad guys are busy attacking Windows. There are millions and millions of Windows machines. And Windows' security flaws are widely publicized.

Each video game console has a unique operating system. The criminals would have to find weaknesses and design attacks.

Plus, malware delivery often depends on the victim's careless behavior. People download files from unknown sources. They open unexpected e-mail attachments. They surf in bad neighborhoods.

Now, each console has access to a Web browser. So, you can surf the Internet if you want. But only the PlayStation 3 allows you to download content. Even then, the PlayStation 3 supports a short list of file types. Other files must be downloaded to an external storage device. They can't be opened on the PlayStation 3.

I think few people use their consoles to surf. These are game machines. When people take them online, it's to play games.

Each console has an online store for downloadable content. Connecting to these stores is safe.

Video game consoles are poor targets for malware writers. That doesn't mean attacks will never happen. I wouldn't be surprised to see malware for consoles in the future. But it's not something to worry about today.

Besides, there's not much you can do about it. There is no security software for video game consoles.

The only thing resembling security software is Trend Micro Web Security for PS3. But this is really just a Web filter. It can block sites by content or reputation. It's more of a parental control feature than malware protection.

If your system software is version 2.00 or later, you already have it. While in the Web browser, select Tools>>Browser Security>>Start Trend Micro Web Security for PS3. You can use it for free through Dec. 31. After that, it will become a pay service. The price has yet to be announced.

There are a few things you can do. First, make sure your home network is secure. You should do this anyway to protect your computers. I have a tip that will walk you through the process.

Next, be sure your video game console is up to date. All three current-generation consoles receive regular updates. These help make the consoles secure and stable. If connected to the Web, you'll receive notification of new updates. Some game discs may also include system updates.

If you're just gaming online, you don't need to worry. Connect your console to the Internet and have fun. If you plan some surfing, use your head. Stick to reputable Web sites. And do online banking or shopping on your computer. It should have the security tools to protect your information.