Viruses and spyware are malicious programs designed to damage your files, steal personal information, and possibly take over your computer.  They can infect your system without your knowledge and should be avoided at all costs.  Protecting your personal information and computer is a worthwhile investment.  Follow these tips to prevent any kind of infection.

 

Use a firewall

A firewall is either a program or piece of hardware that monitors incoming and outgoing internet traffic.  It can protect against unwanted connections, as well as hackers and malicious software from accessing your computer or network.  Windows XP and Vista have built-in firewalls; keep these on at all times.  You can also download a free 3rd party firewall as well, such as ZoneAlarm.  These may provide extra security options.

 

Keep Windows up-to-date

It’s important to have the latest updates for Windows.  This will help increase security by reducing security holes that viruses and spyware may exploit.  Automatic updates should be enabled by default, but you can check by clicking on the Start Menu -> Control Panel -> Automatic Updates.

 

Use an anti-virus program

It’s important to have an anti-virus program installed to monitor your computer from potentially dangerous programs. You’ll receive the best protection when you use both anti-virus and anti-spyware programs.

 

Use anti-spyware tools

It’s important to have an anti-spyware program installed as well.  These are similar to anti-virus programs but monitor and scan for different things.  Some programs combine both anti-virus and anti-spyware together.

 

Avoid unknown email attachments or links

A little paranoia can go a long way.   Be wary of emails from strangers or unknown sources, especially if they contain attachments or links to websites.  If you don’t know who sent it to you, it’s a good idea to delete it and move on.   Your computer can be infected with viruses and spyware from emails.

 

Avoid certain “free” programs

Programs like free icons, cursors, wallpapers, etc. may come with toolbars or other programs that can contain spyware.  Avoid these or at the very least pay attention to the installation details.

 

Don't visit adult sites

Avoid adult oriented websites as they’re a breeding ground for both viruses and spyware.

 

Avoid using file-sharing programs

File sharing programs such as Limewire are an easy way to get your computer infected.  Not everyone online has good intentions and this can lead to trouble for you.  Seemingly harmless MP3s and other files can be masked viruses or spyware.  Try to avoid using these programs.

 

Don't click pop-up ads

Avoid pop-up ads at all costs.  More harm than good can from these and they often times are severely misleading.  Some of them even look like normal Windows messages but are not.  Typically a pop-up will show up on your task bar.  You can right-click on it and select Close.  Clicking OK, Cancel, or anything else on the pop-up itself will not necessarily close the window; in fact it may lead to the automatic download and installation of a virus or spyware program.  Use a pop-up blocker if you don’t have one built into your web browser.  The Google toolbar is an excellent one.

 

Always read end-user license agreements

When installing a program you’ll be presented with an end-user license agreement (EULA) that details the terms and conditions of using the program. Generally speaking, EULAs are long and contain a lot of legal wording and people skip them, however imbedded in them can be special verbiage telling you that by agreeing to the installation of the program you also agree to the installation of OTHER programs.  Keep an eye out for long phrases such as "banner ads", "third-party software", and “toolbar” that may indicate another program will be installed.  If this is the case you may want to skip the installation.

 

Don’t use Internet Explorer

While it comes bundled with Windows, Internet Explorer (IE) is not the safest browser. Due to it’s heavy integration with Windows it has more access to the Windows core than other web browsers, by default.  Earlier versions of IE have security holes and lack pop-up blockers.  It’s a wise idea to try another browser called Firefox, which you can download at www.getfirefox.com.  This web browser is more secure, offers a built-in pop-up blocker.  It’s also a more efficient and faster browser than IE and does everything you need plus more.  It will even import your Favorites from IE when you install it.  Add-ons are also available to enhance your browsing experience.

 

Be Vigilant

Lastly, the best protection can be your vigilance.  If something seems suspicious online, avoid it.  Stick to the lighter side of the Internet and try to avoid unscrupulous things.  Avoid pop-ups and make sure your computer is well protected.  Common sense can go a long way.  If you have even the simplest question don’t hesitate to ask us, it could save you a lot of pain and suffering.

You can get many of these free, safe, preventative programs from www.download.com. This is a trusted website, and these programs are safe.  Remember, free doesn’t mean inadequate and can be just good as paid software.