Protecting against the malware or phishing that lurks when clicking on some links in spam involves some commonsense practices. The best advice is to be cautious when reviewing your email if the email is not from a trusted source, and this is particularly true if the email recommends taking some action with urgency. Verify needed actions by picking up the phone and calling the sender. The bottom line is to be cautious about what you read in email, especially email you do not expect to receive or from someone you don't know.