Archive for October 30th, 2009
Spyware, we all try to avoid it but it seem that in one point or another it usually manages to make its way into our PC. Not only is it annoying, but it can cause harm to the way out computers operate and even give away all your personal information to strangers.
What makes spyware so annoying is that most of the time it manages to find its way into our computers without us even knowing.
So, what can you do to prevent your PC becoming a spyware haven?
The first and most obvious way to not fall victim to spyware is to make sure you know what you are installing. A lot of freeware and shareware now days contain some sort of spyware that can be harmful. Make sure you only download from trusted sites such as www.downloads.com
Make sure you have some sort of preventive measure against spyware always installed on your computer. One in particular that is a must have for everyone is Spybot Search and Destroy. Not only is it free, but it will remove, prevent and immunize your PC against any types of spyware infections or intrusion. Most anti virus programs contain some sort of spyware removal tool as well.
Keep your Operating System updated at all time. Microsoft are constantly bringing out security patches to prevent nasties getting into your PC.
Avoid all forms of Peer 2 Peer programs. You may think downloading the latest songs is harmless but with Peer 2 Peer programs you never know what you’re getting, especially considering you are downloading off other people. And besides, its illegal.
If you see a suspicious e-mail with an attachment, delete it straight away. Only open e-mails from people you know and trust. Even if you do trust the sender it is strongly advised you scan any attachments with an anti virus program.
And finally, stay away from all those “free porn” and “free gambling” websites. Half of these sites require you to download some form of software of plug in for your browser, most of which are spy ware ridden.
So, what can you do if you happen to have spyware on your PC? And how can you tell if you’ve even been infected?
One of the major giveaways of a spyware infection is sluggish performance from your computer. If its taking you ten times longer to start up than normal or if programs simply wont load, there’s a chance you may have a spyware infection. If you’re getting pop ups while browsing the Internet, there’s a chance you have spyware. Notice a million new icons on your desktop that magically made its way there without your knowledge or consent? Yep, that’s spyware.
Luckily, the majority of the bad stuff can be removed with a simple spyware detection and deletion program, such as Spybot Search and Destroy. However, some of the more serious infections can mess around with your registry and major operating sytem files. Some spyware prevention programs may have trouble fully removing these types of spyware. If you find yourself in this sticky situation, its best to leave it to the professionals. Don’t go digging deep into you major files, you may just make things worse.
But then again, if you just follow my simple steps, you’ll never find yourself in that sort of position.