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Computer
problems are nowadays more and more often caused by spyware, a type of computer
software that gets installed on your computer silently and without your
permission. If such software gets into your system, it could steal
personal information like usernames and account passwords, or cause unwanted
popup ads to appear at any time. They can also track your movements on the
internet, and then send that information to someone else without your knowledge.
Although there are no guarantees (as in life in general, except death and
taxes!), you CAN do some things to avoid getting spyware or adware into your pc:
1. Do not click the links in unsolicited email. These links can take you
to a webpage that may look legitimate, but could actually contain hidden content
that will install spyware or adware on your computer.
2. Do not go to unfamiliar websites that promise free things such as
screensavers, software keys, illegitimate copies of commercially sold software,
pornographic videos or pictures, etc. Many websites that fall into one of
these categories use various tactics to make money, either from advertising,
automated and hidden links to other sites that they get paid from, or downright
stealing of your personal information. All it takes is one visit to such a
site, and your computer will get infected unless you are extremely well
protected! Most users of Microsoft Internet Explorer lack these
protections, one needs to assume the worst case will happen, because it can and
does happen.
3. Install antivirus software. You need to protect
yourself. Think of surfing the internet as similar to having unprotected
sex with partners that aren't always well known or trustworthy. A virus of
any kind is always undesirable, no matter how insignificant you may think it is. And
as an added benefit, some antivirus software packages are also capable of
detecting some instances of spyware and adware.
4. Install a reputable anti-spyware program such as Lavasoft's
Adaware or SpyBot Search & Destroy. Both of these programs can be
obtained for free, and paid versions with enhanced features are available.
Search Google or Yahoo for reviews by other users of these programs, and pick
one that satisfies its users the most and gets good reviews. At the very
least get yourself a free version, and think of it as a free insurance policy
for your pc! (Important, see tip #7 below)
5. Scan your pc once a week. Use the antivirus
software and the spyware detection software (see tips #3 and #4 above) to do a
full scan of your computer's hard drive at least once a week. If you leave
your pc on all the time, you can even automate the scans by scheduling the tasks
in the program's option menus.
6. Try surfing the web with Mozilla's Firefox.
This is a web browser, just like Microsoft Internet Explorer (IE). The
difference is that Firefox has more security features in it, and is also less
often targeted by virus and spyware makers than IE is. If you don't want
to bother with this, at least make sure to keep your IE up to date by using the
Windows XP update utility to regularly download updates from Microsoft.
For older versions of Windows (98, ME, NT, etc.) just go to Microsoft's website
for the relevant update packs and downloads.
7. Do not get Spyware Sheriff!
This is a program that masquerades as a spyware remover but is actually another
piece of spyware! Once you get it into your computer, it is very difficult
to remove, although doable if you know how. It will modify your computer's
desktop, and it will lock it so that you cannot change it. This happens
because they want to force you to buy their paid version of the program. It also causes
your pc to slow down considerably. As appealing as Spyware Sheriff
may seem to be to you, this is one anti-spyware program you do not need. Steer
clear, and let your friends and family know this as well.
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