Each time I run an antivirus scan I notice that the total number of files increases. I always make sure that I clear the Internet Explorer cache before starting the scan. Additionally, I have not added any additional Word files in the interim. Can you explain why this file count increases?

Clearing the Internet Explorer cache removes one reason why the file count may have been increasing, but there is still a large range of other reasons why this may be occurring. Whenever you use Windows or associated applications temporary files are created on the computer. While these are supposed to be temporary, sometimes they are not removed or they are intentionally retained for a particular reason. Additionally, if you have been installing programs or changing the settings in existing programs this would also explain why the file count may be increasing. Given the number of programs installed on most computers, together with the number of temporary files these programs could be generating, I would not be particularly concerned about the increase in the number of files when you conduct the antivirus scan, unless an absolutely absurd number of files are being created (such as several thousand in the space of a few days, when you have done no modifications to your computer program installation or configuration).

That said, it always pays to be prudent in such situations so I would strongly recommend that you conduct regular virus scans of your computer together with scans for spyware and other malware. The three utilities Ad-Aware SE Free (www.lavasoft.de), Spybot Search & Destroy (www.safer-networking.org), and Windows Defender (www.microsoft.com/downloads) should provide you with good protection against these malware threats. With regard to antivirus, if you do not already have a virus scanning program consider AVG Free (free.grisoft.com) which is an excellent free antivirus package.