Computer Safety: Antispyware Tips
How to Keep the Information on Your Computer to Yourself
Spyware analyzes user trends to pinpoint advertising targets. It slows down computer efficiency and invades one's privacy. The tips below will help minimize this threat.
By definition, spyware refers to any gathering of user information through Internet use, without the user’s knowledge. The problem is that most of the time this information can only be gathered if it’s installed onto the user’s computer. Many times this installation occurs covertly or during freeware and shareware downloads. Although the majority of spyware is for advertising purposes, some threats and viruses can potentially make their way into the computer. That, plus the fact that tracking one’s computer usage is an invasion of privacy, makes this type of program obtrusive and onerous. The following are some general tips to limit or eliminate the downloading of spyware onto one’s computer.
Security, anti-spyware and firewalls
Many spyware developers analyze security programs regularly. They also know security holes in essential software that involve browsers and operating systems. They recognize and understand what these programs can and can’t do. As a result, they are able to program their spyware in a way that bypass many of these software-operating systems. The best way to defend against this is to update the security programs used, frequently. Updating will keep one step ahead of this type of abuse. Also changing security settings within the computer itself can help regulate how much or little information that can come and go through computer use.
Just as the spyware developers analyze security programming, anti-spyware programmers also see the different exploits that the spyware manufacturer’s abuse and use. Installing one of these programs from a reputable manufacturer can help detect, prevent and eliminate unwanted spyware from one’s computer. Also installation of a firewall will help to prevent hackers from entering the computer and installing their programs remotely.
Trustworthy programs and fine print
Download programs only from Web sites that you trust. Pop up addresses and unrelated advertisements usually are a warning sign that spyware may be insidiously placed within its software. As mentioned above, free product offerings are notorious for containing spyware. The bottom line is that, if you don’t know where it’s coming from, don’t download it.
In addition, read disclosure statements, license agreements or privacy statements carefully and entirely before installing software. The fine print may be your only clue as to the existence of unwanted downloads included with the software. If you don’t understand it, don’t install it.
Close it carefully
When closing out a window or screen, do so carefully. Many programs contain a button stating, “click here to close window.” The problem is that many of these contain very small fine print that may add things like, “and install software.” It’s best to avoid these and to consider clicking the window out via the 'x' at the top of the box or by pressing ALT + F4 simultaneously.
It doesn’t take much for a computer to get unwanted spyware programs. Knowing from where the download is from, the use of anti-spyware and anti-virus programs, firewalls, frequent security updates from the manufacturer and avoiding freeware or shareware is advised. The result will be a computer that will run smoother and one that will maintain user privacy.
