“Spyware is a general term used for software that performs certain
behaviors such as advertising, collecting personal information, or changing
the configuration of your computer, generally without appropriately obtaining
your consent.” — Microsoft.com
Spyware is a serious issue on the modern day Windows PC. Not taking the proper
precautions puts your files and privacy at risk. Not all spyware will damage
files, but they are installed in a deceitful manner in order to do what they
do, annoy users. Protect your computer by following some painless steps.
Most computer experts agree that a good portion of spyware intrudes
while using IE; prevent obtaining spyware in the first place. Don’t use it! Download
and use Firefox, a much more secure browser.
Install an anti-spyware program. I use three free and effective
anti-spyware tools. Ad-Aware,
Spybot — Search
& Destroy, and the new Microsoft
AntiSpyware tool. Out of all of these the Microsoft program is essential.
It is in bata, but it has worked flawlessly for me to date and it is built upon
the recently acquired Giant
AntiSpyware tool, a highly successful detection program.
You might not even know you have spyware installed, so be sure to check and
check often. The forethought will pay off in the long run.