| • 3 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
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Your first step to escaping spyware's wrath is to download and run
Ad-Aware and Spybot - S&D (Search And Destroy), the two
leading spyware fighting tools out there, boasting millions of
downloads each. And best of all they are free. I
highly recommend Ad-Aware. After downloading the 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.
Advanced users like myself will use another free program called
HiJackThis to help with some issues. Use with caution.
If you are not sure if you should remove a component, you probably
shouldn't. Get professional advice first.
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!
About the Author
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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