There are a few things you can do to avoid
getting spyware on your computer.
-
Stay away from questionable sites such
as adult sites, hacking sites and sites
that promote free commercial software
that you would normally have to pay for
or music and anything else that sounds
illegal.
-
If while online you get any popups
telling you that you are infected with a
virus or spyware etc and to click here
to fix it, close the window.
-
Don’t click yes or OK to any popups or
install anything while online unless you
are certain you know what it is and that
it is safe.
-
Read all license agreements carefully
when installing any free software
downloaded from the internet.
Additional Tips Below to Help You Stay Safe
Online
1. Install all
Windows updates. Hackers
and other unscrupulous individuals are
constantly finding ways to exploit security
flaws in Windows. Microsoft closes these holes
in its operating systems by frequently releasing patches and
prompting users to install them. Ignoring these
messages can leave a machine vulnerable to
malicious invaders.
2. Don't
open attachments or click links in emails from
strangers. The
adage about taking candy from strangers also
applies to opening attachments from those you
don't know. Many types of viruses spread via
email attachments, and the same is true with
spyware. Still, it's important to remind anyone
who uses your PC not to open attachments from
strangers or those that end in .EXE, .PIF, or
.COM, regardless of who sent it.
3. Only download
software from a trusted source. The
allure of free software can be quite seductive,
but you might end up paying in other ways. Many
developers, such as those who produce
file-sharing programs, make their money by
bundling adware or spyware with free products.
Warn users to be particularly wary of "fun"
freebies such as screensavers, emoticons, and
games. Before downloading anything from the
Internet, it's crucial to scrutinize the Web
site's privacy policy (usually located near the
bottom of the page), keeping an eye out for
questionable or suspicious words and phrases --
such as "banner ads" and "third-party software"
-- that might indicate the presence of adware or
spyware.
