Home > Geeky, Safety, Tips > Four simple ways to prevent Spyware

Four simple ways to prevent Spyware

August 16th, 2006
Goto comments Leave a comment

Spyware is a major pain these days and I will suggest four simple ways to prevent your computer from being controlled by spyware, and how you can gain control. Four simple tips that anyone can do today to stop the infection of spyware (and most viruses). Even though most Windows PC’s are plagued with spyware, this too can apply for Apple user’s too.

Update your Operating System (OS)
Updating your OS is critical to being current with security fixes. Many spyware companies will utilize the numerous exploits available to compromise your system. It would be a good idea to update your operating system (at least, checking for updates) on a bi-weekly basis.

  • Microsoft Windows sers can get the free updates at http://update.microsoft.com
  • Apple users can get their security updates from the Apple menu, then “Software Update” (More Info)

Get some Anti-Spyware software, Free
Spyware is difficult to remove, thats the point. Some will just be pain to remove from startup, some will literally damage your network and really stop you in your tracks from being productive. By downloading a few legitimate programs, running a weekly scan will keep you safe and secure from infections. If you found some pest and it won’t leave; Google it! Odds are someone has it and they got it removed. People collaborate and share their methods to fight the spyware - so don’t worry, take action!

  • AdAware Personal SE 1.06 - Excellent program, Focuses on registry infections, startup, and Internet Explorer related issues.
  • Spybot Search & Destroy 1.4 - Compliments Ad-Aware, focuses on BHO’s, Hijackers, and LSPs.
  • CWShredder 2.19 - Specifically removes CoolWebSearch variants of spyware
  • UPDATE THEM! When you open then, get the updates. They are of no help to you, if you do not update

Install Anti Virus and Firewall protection
It’s been said over and over. Here’s the deal - a lot of spyware often can be packaged with Viruses, and the Anti Virus software will help prevent that. Further, a firewall prevent unauthorized, unsolicited requests from being processed by your computer.

Be careful with what you download

  • The phrase “If its too good to be true, it probably is”, is too common. Don’t download something that promises too much.
  • If a website forces you to try to download something, DO NOT DOWNLOAD IT. You are welcome to Googling the file first to see if it’s legitimate.
  • Not all files are what they seem. On file sharing networks, a lot of viruses float around there and you need to be careful. I would advise all the former steps to being followed before downloading files again.
  • Keep up on updates. Keep informed. Excellent websites to check out are Secunia, CNet News, Apple News (For Apple Users), and finally McAfee Threat Center. I check them every other day to keep informed.

[tags]Security, Downloading, Spyware, Safety, Security, Adware, Tips, Information, Technology, Privacy[/tags]

Geeky, Safety, Tips