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Three Simple Steps to Stay
Safe from Spyware
There are several basic concepts to keep in mind
when deciding to stay spyware free for good. This article will outline a spyware
checklist for you to keep in mind when getting tough on spyware and taking back
control of your computer using two popular free applications, Ad-Aware, and
Spybot - S&D. Using these two programs in conjunction will eliminate a vast
majority of spyware problems from your computer. For the purposes of this
article, "spyware" refers also to adware, malware, and other not-so-nice
"features" of today's computing reality.
These are some tell-tale warning signs that your computer may be suffering from
spyware-
| You receive many pop-ups |
| Your computer is running slowly |
| You may have invasive toolbars hijacking your browser |
| Your home page may have been hijacked |
Your first step to escaping spyware's wrath is to download and run Ad-Aware
and Spybot - S&D, the two leading spyware fighting tools out there, boasting
millions of downloads each. Please remember it's always safest to backup your
system before installing a new program or executing one. After downloading the
two programs, be sure to run the update feature to be sure they are current when
it comes to detecting the latest threats. Remove the detected spyware using
these two programs, then move to step two.
The second step in staying spyware free involves you to be proactive. At this
point your computer should be free from spyware. What you want to do now is keep
it this way, to do that there are helpful tips to guide you. In Windows 98 you
can use msconfig to view the startup programs on your computer. This is helpful
because you can control what programs automatically load when you boot your
computer. To access this invaluable tool, go to START >> RUN, type MSCONFIG. If
you check the startup programs occasionally you may see a new spyware entry that
will alert you it's time to clean out the spyware again.
The third step involves your web browsing habits. It means you must never click
on an activex screen that asks you if you want to allow an innocuous looking
toolbar, or "surfing aid" be installed. By clicking "allow" you are effectively
giving these perfidious spyware authors free reign over your system and personal
information. If possible you should surf with the security settings on "maximum"
for safest surfing.
In summary, it's important to avoid spyware for your computer and personal
identity health. To do so, use free tools available to you and be mindful of
your computer settings and surf the Internet responsibly. Following these easy
steps will ensure a safe and spyware free existence for you and your computer!
Written by Erich Bihlman, of Bihlman Consulting - PC and Internet Tutoring and
Website Design in Prescott, Arizona. Bihlman.com For additional helpful
articles visit IQZone
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