The concept behind the technology of spyware is that, a number of advertising companies take interest to install tracking software into the computer system, that illusions to call it host with aims to use all internet connections, get statistical or other information data to what they will claim "home" attesting assurance of company's security policies not to collect sensitive data for confidentiality, and with full promise to establish continuity of anonymity.
However, it is an establish fact that the PC functions as a "live" server that is open for any kind of information disseminations with or without the consent of the server; bottom lining the fact, there is always a risk for any transfer of any information even those covered by protection policies between the advertiser and the so called "mothership." In the end just as nobody would wish, it will be sending assimilated data that might escape the benefit of payment from the PC database.
Although spyware and adware could be two in one to front probable interference to the server's privacy, spyware could stage sole manipulation to indulge deeper in affecting the users privacy, prompting slow-down computer's effectiveness, windows' pop-ups of undesirable ads, and spam e-mails.
Several media companies are perennially seeking ways to eliminate large expense for web development and internet costs; but instead, tend to pay part of their revenue solicitations from reputable brands' banner sales to host servers by installing reputable piece software by way of so called "piggybacking," or tricking methods as the Trojan horse technique, installing some "rogue" anti-spyware program, eluding detection of its being a disguised security software.
A spyware no adware technology is an advertising copyright itself, can stand without having to do with any adware's vulnerability threats. The so-called "Web accelerator" or helpful software agents: Example, the Bonzi Buddy (quoted from: Wikipidea), targeted to children: "He will explore the internet with you as your own friend and sidekick. He can talk, walk, joke, browse, search, e-mail and download like no other friend you've ever had! . . Best of all, it is FREE."
This piece of copyright text is so deceptive for unknowingly, motives behind depict to pursue some ends in order to evade something that will disrupt the mobility of cash flow of the mother host.
Why is Spy ware Deceptive?
1. It does not self-replicate; instead, it invades infected computers for commercial gains purposes.
2. It monitors Web browsing activity (sales strategy) and routes of all HTTP to advertising agencies.
3. Delivery of pop-up advertisements
4. Theft of Credit and Identification card numbers in relation to the notorious identity theft around.
5. Spyware gets into the system by exploitations of other software vulnerability.
The Effects of the Spyware upon the Use of the Computer
There are so many complicated effects that are induced by spyware. It may not even be detected as an obvious virus infection, but comes in, a core factor of ineffective results of computers' performance; like network traffic, disk usage, CPU malfunction which may be mislead to be a PC crash, and finally resolving to replace the whole system with a new one.
The demand for technical support and assistance is another recourse for badly spyware-infected computers. Another option is to have a thorough "cleanup" of the whole system. It needs massive reinstalling on software in order to revitalize as new.
For more information on securing your PC visit here.
Thats all for now, till next time.
Bill
Read more!
Friday, July 18, 2008
Thursday, July 17, 2008
STOP THINK CLICK part 4
This is the final installment of the series featuring the FTC's new website about computer security. They do an excellent job of describing how to protect yourself. Please check them out when you get the chance.
Well without further ado here it is -----
I hope you enjoyed this series of posts. Just to remind you I obtained this information from the webite www.onguardonline.gov
For more information on all things PC security related be sure to visit here.
Well till next time, and compute safely.
William Witt Read more!
Well without further ado here it is -----
4. Be sure to set up your operating system and Web browser software properly, and update them regularly.
Hackers also take advantage of Web browsers (like Internet Explorer or Netscape) and operating system software (like Windows or Linux) that are unsecured. Lessen your risk by changing the settings in your browser or operating system and increasing your online security. Check the "Tools" or "Options" menus for built-in security features. If you need help understanding your choices, use your "Help" function.
Your operating system also may offer free software “patches” that close holes in the system that hackers could exploit. If possible, set your operating system to automatically retrieve and install patches for you. If your system can't do this, bookmark the website for your system's manufacturer so you can regularly visit and update your system with defenses against the latest attacks. Updating can be as simple as one click. Your email software may help you avoid viruses by giving you the ability to filter certain types of spam. It's up to you to activate the filter.
If you're not using your computer for an extended period, disconnect it from the Internet. When it's disconnected, the computer doesn't send or receive information from the Internet and isn't vulnerable to hackers.
5. Protect your passwords.
Keep your passwords in a secure place, and out of plain view. Don't share your passwords on the Internet, over email, or on the phone. Your Internet Service Provider (ISP) should never ask for your password.
In addition, hackers may try to figure out your passwords to gain access to your computer. To make it tougher for them:
- Use passwords that have at least eight characters and include numbers or symbols. The longer the password, the tougher it is to crack. A 12-character password is stronger than one with eight characters.
- Avoid common words: some hackers use programs that can try every word in the dictionary.
- Don't use your personal information, your login name, or adjacent keys on the keyboard as passwords.
- Change your passwords regularly (at a minimum, every 90 days).
- Don't use the same password for each online account you access.
One way to create a strong password is to think of a memorable phrase and use the first letter of each word as your password, converting some letters into numbers that resemble letters. For example, "How much wood could a woodchuck chuck" would become HmWc@wC.
6. Back up important files.
If you follow these tips, you're more likely to be more secure online, free of interference from hackers, viruses, and spammers. But no system is completely secure. If you have important files stored on your computer, copy them onto a removable disc, and store them in a safe place.
7. Learn who to contact if something goes wrong online
Hacking or Computer Virus
If your computer gets hacked or infected by a virus:
- Immediately disconnect your machine from the Internet. Then scan your entire computer with fully updated anti-virus and anti-spyware software, and update your firewall.
- If your computer is infected and you can't get it to recover any other way, you can buy software to "wipe" — or erase — the hard drive. You'd then have to reinstall the operating system, and any other files you wish to use.
- Take steps to minimize the chances of another incident.
- Alert the appropriate authorities by contacting:
- your ISP and the hacker's ISP (if you can tell what it is). You can usually find an ISP's email address on its website. Include information on the incident from your firewall's log file. By alerting the ISP to the problem on its system, you can help it prevent similar problems in the future.
- the FBI at www.ic3.gov. To fight computer criminals, they need to hear from you.
Internet fraud
If a scammer takes advantage of you through an Internet auction, when you're shopping online, or in any other way, report it to the Federal Trade Commission, at ftc.gov. The FTC enters Internet, identity theft, and other fraud-related complaints into Consumer Sentinel, a secure, online database available to hundreds of civil and criminal law enforcement agencies in the U.S. and abroad.
Deceptive Spam
If you get deceptive spam, including email phishing for your information, forward it to spam@uce.gov. Be sure to include the full header of the email, including all routing information. You also may report phishing email to reportphishing@antiphishing.org. The Anti-Phishing Working Group, a consortium of ISPs, security vendors, financial institutions and law enforcement agencies, uses these reports to fight phishing.
Divulged Personal Information
If you believe you have mistakenly given your personal information to a fraudster, file a complaint at ftc.gov, and then visit the Federal Trade Commission's Identity Theft website at ftc.gov/idtheft to learn how to minimize your risk of damage from a potential theft of your identity.
Parents
Parental controls are provided by most ISPs, or are sold as separate software. Remember that no software can substitute for parental supervision. Talk to your kids about safe computing practices, as well as the things they're seeing and doing online.
I hope you enjoyed this series of posts. Just to remind you I obtained this information from the webite www.onguardonline.gov
For more information on all things PC security related be sure to visit here.
Well till next time, and compute safely.
William Witt Read more!
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
STOP THINK CLICK part 3
Hi and welcome back. I am continuing the series from OnGuardOnLine.gov today. This time we will talk about viruses and spyware. Well without further ado here we go.
3 Use anti-virus and and anti-spyware software, as well as a firewall, and update them all regularly.
Dealing with anti-virus and firewall protection may sound about as exciting as flossing your teeth, but it's just as important as a preventive measure. Having intense dental treatment is never fun; neither is dealing with the effects of a preventable computer virus.
3 Use anti-virus and and anti-spyware software, as well as a firewall, and update them all regularly.
Dealing with anti-virus and firewall protection may sound about as exciting as flossing your teeth, but it's just as important as a preventive measure. Having intense dental treatment is never fun; neither is dealing with the effects of a preventable computer virus.
Anti-virus Software
Anti-virus software protects your computer from viruses that can destroy your data, slow your computer's performance, cause a crash, or even allow spammers to send email through your account. It works by scanning your computer and your incoming email for viruses, and then deleting them.
To be effective, your anti-virus software should update daily with antidotes to the latest "bugs" circulating through the Internet. Most commercial anti-virus software includes a feature to download updates automatically when you are on the Internet.
What to Look For and Where to Get It
You can download anti-virus software from the websites of software companies or buy it in retail stores. Look for anti-virus software that:
- Removes or quarantines viruses.
- Updates automatically.
Anti-spyware Software
Installed on your computer without your consent, spyware software monitors or controls your computer use. It may be used to send you pop-up ads, redirect your computer to websites, monitor your Internet surfing, or record your keystrokes, which, in turn, could lead to the theft of your personal information.
Clues that spyware is on a computer include:
- A barrage of pop-up ads
- A hijacked browser — that is, a browser that takes you to sites other than those you type into the address box
- A sudden or repeated change in your computer’s Internet home page
- New and unexpected toolbars
- Unexpected icons on the system tray at the bottom of your computer screen
- Keys that don’t work
- Random error messages
- Sluggish or downright slow performance when opening programs or saving files.
You can take steps to limit your vulnerability to spyware:
- Update your operating system and Web browser software. Your operating system (like Windows or Linux) may offer free software “patches” to close holes in the system that spyware could exploit. Make sure to set your browser security high enough to detect unauthorized downloads.
- Download free software only from sites you know and trust. It can be appealing to download free software like games, file-sharing programs, customized toolbars, or other programs that may change or customize the functioning of your computer. Be aware, however, that many free software applications bundle other software, including spyware.
Firewalls
Don't be put off by the word “firewall.” It's not necessary to fully understand how it works; it's enough to know what it does and why you need it. Firewalls help keep hackers from using your computer to send out your personal information without your permission. While anti-virus software scans incoming email and files, a firewall is like a guard, watching for outside attempts to access your system and blocking communications to and from sources you don't permit.
Some operating systems and hardware devices come with a built-in firewall that may be shipped in the "off" mode. Make sure you turn it on. For your firewall to be effective, it needs to be set up properly and updated regularly. Check your online "Help" feature for specific instructions.
If your operating system doesn't include a firewall, get a separate software firewall that runs in the background while you work, or install a hardware firewall — an external device that includes firewall software. Several free firewall software programs are available on the Internet.
Don't Become a Zombie Drone
Some spammers search the Internet for unprotected computers they can control and use anonymously to send unwanted spam emails. If you don't have up-to-date anti-virus protection and a firewall, spammers may try to install software that lets them route email through your computer, often to thousands of recipients, so that it appears to have come from your account. If this happens, you may receive an overwhelming number of complaints from recipients, and your email account could be shut down by your Internet Service Provider (ISP).
Read more!STOP THINK CLICK part2
7 Practices for safer computing.
I am continuing my sharing of the resource information about the new online initiative sponsored by the FTC. This is certainly valuable and timely advice. Without further ado here is the next installment.
2 Know who you're dealing with.
And know what you're getting into. There are dishonest people in the brick and mortar world as well as on the Internet. But online, you can't judge an operator's trustworthiness with a gut-affirming look in the eye. It's remarkably simple for online scammers to impersonate a legitimate business; so you need to know with whom you're dealing. Check out the seller before you buy. A legitimate business or individual seller should give you a physical address and a working telephone number at which they can be contacted in case you have problems.
PHISHING: Bait or Prey?
"We suspect an unauthorized transaction on your account. To ensure that your account is not compromised, please click the link below and confirm your identity."
"During our regular verification of accounts, we couldn't verify your information. Please click here to update and verify your information."
Have you received email with a similar message? It's a scam called "phishing" - and it involves Internet fraudsters who send spam or pop-up messages to lure personal information (credit card numbers, bank account information, Social Security number, passwords, or other sensitive information) from unsuspecting victims.
"Phishers" send spam or pop-up messages, claiming to be from a business or organization that you might deal with - for example, an Internet Service Provider (ISP), bank, online payment service, or even a government agency. The message usually says you need to "update" or "validate" your account information. It might threaten some dire consequence if you don't respond. The message directs you to a website that looks just like a legitimate organization's but isn't. Don't take the bait: NEVER reply yo or click on links in email or pop-ups that ask for personal information. Legitimate companies don't ask for information this way. If you are directed to a website to update your information, verify that the site is legitimate by calling the company directly, using contact information fromyour account statements. Or open a new browser window and type the URL into the address field, watching that the actual URL of the site you visit doesn't change and is still the one you intended to visit.
Forward spam that is phishing for information to spam@uce.gov and to the company, bank or organization impersonated in the phishing email. Most organizations have information on their websites about where to report problems.
These additional tips may help you avoid getting hooked by a phishing scam:
Every day, millions of computer users share files online. File-sharing gives access to a wealth of information, including music, games and software. How does it work? You download special software that connects your computer to an informal network of other computers running the same software. Millions of users could be connected to each other through this software at one time. Often the software is free and easily accessible.
But file-sharing poses a risk. If you don't check the proper settings, you could permit access not just to the files you intend to share, but also to other information on your hard drive, like your tax returns, email messages, medical records, photos, or other personal documents. In addition, you may unwittingly download pornography labeled as something else. Or you may download material that is protected by the copyright laws, which would mean you could be breaking the law.
If you decide to use file-sharing software, set it up carefully. Read the End User Licensing Agreement to be sure you understand and are willing to tolerate the side effects of any free downloads.
This concludes part 2 - know who you're dealing with.
My next post (part 3) will be about spyware and viruses. Remember for further information on STOP-THINK-CLICK visit OnGuardOnline.gov
For further information on PC Security visit here.
Read more!
I am continuing my sharing of the resource information about the new online initiative sponsored by the FTC. This is certainly valuable and timely advice. Without further ado here is the next installment.
2 Know who you're dealing with.
And know what you're getting into. There are dishonest people in the brick and mortar world as well as on the Internet. But online, you can't judge an operator's trustworthiness with a gut-affirming look in the eye. It's remarkably simple for online scammers to impersonate a legitimate business; so you need to know with whom you're dealing. Check out the seller before you buy. A legitimate business or individual seller should give you a physical address and a working telephone number at which they can be contacted in case you have problems.
PHISHING: Bait or Prey?
"We suspect an unauthorized transaction on your account. To ensure that your account is not compromised, please click the link below and confirm your identity."
"During our regular verification of accounts, we couldn't verify your information. Please click here to update and verify your information."
Have you received email with a similar message? It's a scam called "phishing" - and it involves Internet fraudsters who send spam or pop-up messages to lure personal information (credit card numbers, bank account information, Social Security number, passwords, or other sensitive information) from unsuspecting victims.
"Phishers" send spam or pop-up messages, claiming to be from a business or organization that you might deal with - for example, an Internet Service Provider (ISP), bank, online payment service, or even a government agency. The message usually says you need to "update" or "validate" your account information. It might threaten some dire consequence if you don't respond. The message directs you to a website that looks just like a legitimate organization's but isn't. Don't take the bait: NEVER reply yo or click on links in email or pop-ups that ask for personal information. Legitimate companies don't ask for information this way. If you are directed to a website to update your information, verify that the site is legitimate by calling the company directly, using contact information fromyour account statements. Or open a new browser window and type the URL into the address field, watching that the actual URL of the site you visit doesn't change and is still the one you intended to visit.
Forward spam that is phishing for information to spam@uce.gov and to the company, bank or organization impersonated in the phishing email. Most organizations have information on their websites about where to report problems.
These additional tips may help you avoid getting hooked by a phishing scam:
- Area codes can mislead. Some scammers send an email that appears to be from a legitimate business and ask you to call a phone number to update your account or access a "refund." Because they use Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology, the area code you call does not reflect their real location. To reach an organization you do business with, call the number on your financial statements or on the back of your credit card. In any case, delete random emails that ask you to confirm or divulge your financial information.
- Review vredit card and bank account statements as soon as you receive them to check for unauthorized charges. If your statement is late by more than a couple of days, call your credit card company or bank to confirm your billing address and account balances.
- Be cautious about opening any attachment or downloading any files from emails you receive, regradless of who sent them. These files can contain viruses or other software that can weaken your computer's security.
Every day, millions of computer users share files online. File-sharing gives access to a wealth of information, including music, games and software. How does it work? You download special software that connects your computer to an informal network of other computers running the same software. Millions of users could be connected to each other through this software at one time. Often the software is free and easily accessible.
But file-sharing poses a risk. If you don't check the proper settings, you could permit access not just to the files you intend to share, but also to other information on your hard drive, like your tax returns, email messages, medical records, photos, or other personal documents. In addition, you may unwittingly download pornography labeled as something else. Or you may download material that is protected by the copyright laws, which would mean you could be breaking the law.
If you decide to use file-sharing software, set it up carefully. Read the End User Licensing Agreement to be sure you understand and are willing to tolerate the side effects of any free downloads.
This concludes part 2 - know who you're dealing with.
My next post (part 3) will be about spyware and viruses. Remember for further information on STOP-THINK-CLICK visit OnGuardOnline.gov
For further information on PC Security visit here.
Read more!
Sunday, July 13, 2008
STOP THINK CLICK
7 Practices for safer computing.
The FTC (Federal Trade Commission) has arranged for a website that promotes safe computing. To support this endeavor I am going to post some articles they created over the next few posts. These articles come together in a package titled '7 Practices for Safer Computing'. Without further ado here is the first.....
7 Practices for Safer Computing. To be safer and more secure online, adopt these seven practices.
1 Protect your personal information. It's valuable.
To an identity theft, your personal information can provide instant access to your financial accounts, your credit record, and other assets.
If you think no one would target your personal information, think again. The reality is that anyone can be a victim of identity theft. According to a Federal Trade Commission survey, there are almost 10 million victims every year. It's often difficult to know how thieves obtained their victims' personal information. While it definitely can happen offline, some cases start when online data is stolen.
Unfortunately, you can't entirely control whether you will become a victim of identity theft. But following these tips can help minimize your risk while you're online:
For more information about the FTC's new website visit them here.
For more information about PC Security overall visit this website. Read more!
The FTC (Federal Trade Commission) has arranged for a website that promotes safe computing. To support this endeavor I am going to post some articles they created over the next few posts. These articles come together in a package titled '7 Practices for Safer Computing'. Without further ado here is the first.....
7 Practices for Safer Computing. To be safer and more secure online, adopt these seven practices.
1 Protect your personal information. It's valuable.
To an identity theft, your personal information can provide instant access to your financial accounts, your credit record, and other assets.
If you think no one would target your personal information, think again. The reality is that anyone can be a victim of identity theft. According to a Federal Trade Commission survey, there are almost 10 million victims every year. It's often difficult to know how thieves obtained their victims' personal information. While it definitely can happen offline, some cases start when online data is stolen.
Unfortunately, you can't entirely control whether you will become a victim of identity theft. But following these tips can help minimize your risk while you're online:
- If asked for personal information - your name, email or home address, phone number, account numbers, or Social Security number - find out how it's going to be used and how it will be protected before you share it. In general, its a good idea to keep your last name, home address, and phone number to yourself.
- If you get an email or pop-up message asking for personal information, don't reply or click on the link in the message. To check if a company with whom you have an account or placed an order may need such information, contact them directly in a way you know to be genuine, like a phone number from directory assistance. In any case, don't send personal information via email because email is not a secure transmission method.
- When shopping online, don't provide personal or financial information through a company's website until you check that the site is secure. Look for indicators like a lock icon on the browser's status bar or a website URL that begins "https:" (the "s" stands for "secure"). Unfortunately, no indcator is foolproof; some scammers have forged security icons.
- Read website privacy policies. These should explain what personal information the website collects, how the information is used, and whether it is provided to third parties. The privacy policy should also tell whether you have the right to see what information the website has about you and what security measures the company takes to protect your information. If you don't see a privacy policy - or if you can't understand it - consider doing business elsewhere.
For more information about the FTC's new website visit them here.
For more information about PC Security overall visit this website. Read more!
Saturday, July 12, 2008
The Difference of Adware, Spyware and Anti-virus
Adware, spyware and computer virus share some similarities, one of which is that all three are major nuisances for computer users. Let's differentiate the three.
Spyware is software that does not intentionally harm your computer. What they do is that they create pathways wherein someone else aside from the computer owner can communicate with the computer. Normally spywares record the various types of web sites you visit which are later used by web advertisers to allow them to send you unwanted emails and pop-ups.
This is why spyware are usually frowned upon and greatly avoided. They are more intrusive than adware. Spyware have their own separate executable programs which allow them to record your keystrokes, scan files on your hard disks and look at other applications that you use including but not limited to chat programs, cookies and Web browser settings.
The spyware then will send the information that it had gathered to the spyware author. The agent will then use this information for advertising and marketing purposes. They even sell the information to advertisers and other parties.
Adware, on the other hand, are more legitimate form of freeware. Similar to spyware, adwares are advertising materials which are packaged into a software or program and are installed automatically once that particular program or software is added into the computer system. Some forms of adware, on the other hand, download advertising contents as a particular application is being utilized. It is quite unfortunate that most of the adware programs take the form of spywares that is they track and report user information to program authors.
Some signs of spyware infections include pop-up ads that seem to be not related to the site you are viewing. More often than not, spyware pop-ups are advertisements about adult contents. Also if you notice your computer slowing down, there's a big chance that spywares and its other components have found their way in your operating system. When the Windows desktop also takes a longer time to load, its best to scan your computer for possible spyware infections.
Meanwhile, viruses are destructive form of software. They were purely designed and created for one purpose alone: to wreck havoc to your computer. They destroy whatever they come in contact to and will initiate self replication and infect as many components of the computer's operating system or network as possible.
Nowadays, a lot of anti-virus software also provides spyware and adware scanning and removal utilities. Some programs, however, are focused on located and deleting or destroying spyware and adware programs. Whether is an anti-virus software or a anti-spyware dedicated scanner, they both search your computer and identify any spyware and virus installed on your system.
They then remove it as well as their components located in the system registry among other places in your computer. It is therefore, good to regularly update your virus or spyware scanner to ensure that your computer is protected from the thousands of spyware and viruses in the internet. Never be fooled from ads that claim that their products only contain adware.
These adware maybe spyware in disguised and are just waiting to be deployed for them to gather your information. Learn to setup firewall systems and always block pop-up blockers to minimize computer infection and ensure the security of all your computer files.
For more in depth information on this and other pc security issues come visit us! Read more!
Spyware is software that does not intentionally harm your computer. What they do is that they create pathways wherein someone else aside from the computer owner can communicate with the computer. Normally spywares record the various types of web sites you visit which are later used by web advertisers to allow them to send you unwanted emails and pop-ups.
This is why spyware are usually frowned upon and greatly avoided. They are more intrusive than adware. Spyware have their own separate executable programs which allow them to record your keystrokes, scan files on your hard disks and look at other applications that you use including but not limited to chat programs, cookies and Web browser settings.
The spyware then will send the information that it had gathered to the spyware author. The agent will then use this information for advertising and marketing purposes. They even sell the information to advertisers and other parties.
Adware, on the other hand, are more legitimate form of freeware. Similar to spyware, adwares are advertising materials which are packaged into a software or program and are installed automatically once that particular program or software is added into the computer system. Some forms of adware, on the other hand, download advertising contents as a particular application is being utilized. It is quite unfortunate that most of the adware programs take the form of spywares that is they track and report user information to program authors.
Some signs of spyware infections include pop-up ads that seem to be not related to the site you are viewing. More often than not, spyware pop-ups are advertisements about adult contents. Also if you notice your computer slowing down, there's a big chance that spywares and its other components have found their way in your operating system. When the Windows desktop also takes a longer time to load, its best to scan your computer for possible spyware infections.
Meanwhile, viruses are destructive form of software. They were purely designed and created for one purpose alone: to wreck havoc to your computer. They destroy whatever they come in contact to and will initiate self replication and infect as many components of the computer's operating system or network as possible.
Nowadays, a lot of anti-virus software also provides spyware and adware scanning and removal utilities. Some programs, however, are focused on located and deleting or destroying spyware and adware programs. Whether is an anti-virus software or a anti-spyware dedicated scanner, they both search your computer and identify any spyware and virus installed on your system.
They then remove it as well as their components located in the system registry among other places in your computer. It is therefore, good to regularly update your virus or spyware scanner to ensure that your computer is protected from the thousands of spyware and viruses in the internet. Never be fooled from ads that claim that their products only contain adware.
These adware maybe spyware in disguised and are just waiting to be deployed for them to gather your information. Learn to setup firewall systems and always block pop-up blockers to minimize computer infection and ensure the security of all your computer files.
For more in depth information on this and other pc security issues come visit us! Read more!
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
5 Simple ways to keep your computer secure and virus free
These simple tips will help you stay virus and spyware free, even if you're connected to the internet 24 hours a day.
1. Protect yourself
Good protection on the Internet these days consists of 3 components: anti-virus software, anti-spyware software and a firewall.
Good virus protection doesn't need to cost you a fortune. You can get excellent free anti-virus software at www.grisoft.com. Even the professional version of their software is very affordable.
For spyware protection, go to www.lavasoft.de and download Ad-Aware SE Personal, also free. This will zap the most common spyware and adware found on the Internet.
As for a firewall, Windows XP ships with a decent enough firewall. Just make sure it is always enabled. Alternatively you can visit a site like www.download.com and search for Zone Alarm, which has an excellent free version.
The most important thing to keep in mind is that you need to keep your anti-virus software up to date. An anti-virus program that uses definitions that are months old is just about useless.
Update your anti-virus and anti-spyware software at least once a week.
2. Stop opening every attachment you receive.
Most of the devastating worms and viruses of recent times were distributed via email. These viruses feed on the curiosity and also the ignorance of a huge number of email users. People will get an email from fakename@weirdsuspiciousdomain and they'll just open whatever file is attached to it.
If you don't know the sender, don't open the attachment - just delete it. It doesn't matter if the subject promises you'll see Britney Spears dancing nude on the kitchen table, just delete it.
If the email is from someone you know, always scan any attachments first before downloading or opening them.
If every email user in the world followed these simple guidelines the distribution of viruses via email will grind to a halt.
3. Stay clear of pornographic and illegal software sites
If you want to pick up viruses and spyware quickly, visit some pornographic web sites. One wrong click on a subtle little pop-up or security warning window (which you'll run into often on these type of sites) and you'll have infested yourself with trojan horses, spyware, dialers and other unfavorable software that could leave your computer wide open to further attacks.
The same goes for web sites distributing software, serial codes and cracks illegally (warez).
Simply put - keep out of the dark side of the web and the odds of keeping your computer clean shifts decidedly in your favor.
4. Watch out what you download
Spyware is embedded in a lot of software on the Internet - especially those related to ripping, converting and playing music and videos. That free MP3 player or DVD Ripper you just downloaded may have installed a bunch of harmful spyware without you even knowing about it.
5. Keep yourself informed
Major anti-virus software developers like Symantec and Grisoft updates their sites regularly with the latest virus alerts. Visit these sites frequently to keep yourself aware of what threats are doing the rounds and how to avoid them.
Using these simple and software I have kept my computer virus-free for the past 3 years. It's not rocket science. Just stay alert, use some common sense and you too can stay bug free while still enjoying your Internet experience.
For more in depth information on this and other pc security issues come visit us! Read more!
1. Protect yourself
Good protection on the Internet these days consists of 3 components: anti-virus software, anti-spyware software and a firewall.
Good virus protection doesn't need to cost you a fortune. You can get excellent free anti-virus software at www.grisoft.com. Even the professional version of their software is very affordable.
For spyware protection, go to www.lavasoft.de and download Ad-Aware SE Personal, also free. This will zap the most common spyware and adware found on the Internet.
As for a firewall, Windows XP ships with a decent enough firewall. Just make sure it is always enabled. Alternatively you can visit a site like www.download.com and search for Zone Alarm, which has an excellent free version.
The most important thing to keep in mind is that you need to keep your anti-virus software up to date. An anti-virus program that uses definitions that are months old is just about useless.
Update your anti-virus and anti-spyware software at least once a week.
2. Stop opening every attachment you receive.
Most of the devastating worms and viruses of recent times were distributed via email. These viruses feed on the curiosity and also the ignorance of a huge number of email users. People will get an email from fakename@weirdsuspiciousdomain and they'll just open whatever file is attached to it.
If you don't know the sender, don't open the attachment - just delete it. It doesn't matter if the subject promises you'll see Britney Spears dancing nude on the kitchen table, just delete it.
If the email is from someone you know, always scan any attachments first before downloading or opening them.
If every email user in the world followed these simple guidelines the distribution of viruses via email will grind to a halt.
3. Stay clear of pornographic and illegal software sites
If you want to pick up viruses and spyware quickly, visit some pornographic web sites. One wrong click on a subtle little pop-up or security warning window (which you'll run into often on these type of sites) and you'll have infested yourself with trojan horses, spyware, dialers and other unfavorable software that could leave your computer wide open to further attacks.
The same goes for web sites distributing software, serial codes and cracks illegally (warez).
Simply put - keep out of the dark side of the web and the odds of keeping your computer clean shifts decidedly in your favor.
4. Watch out what you download
Spyware is embedded in a lot of software on the Internet - especially those related to ripping, converting and playing music and videos. That free MP3 player or DVD Ripper you just downloaded may have installed a bunch of harmful spyware without you even knowing about it.
5. Keep yourself informed
Major anti-virus software developers like Symantec and Grisoft updates their sites regularly with the latest virus alerts. Visit these sites frequently to keep yourself aware of what threats are doing the rounds and how to avoid them.
Using these simple and software I have kept my computer virus-free for the past 3 years. It's not rocket science. Just stay alert, use some common sense and you too can stay bug free while still enjoying your Internet experience.
For more in depth information on this and other pc security issues come visit us! Read more!
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