What You Need To Know About Fighting Spyware

Spyware is something that every computer user should be aware of

. Computer industry leaders report that spyware is the source of almost 80 percent of system failures. Spyware typically loads itself onto personal computers and can infiltrate computer network causing the computers to get increasingly slower until eventually all data is corrupted and the system crashes. Even if you do have backups, think of all the time and effort it takes to get a computer system up and running again. More worrying is that fact that some spyware records your personal information and uses that for its own purposes. This could result in personal identity theft and credit card fraud. It is therefore essential to be aware of the risks of spyware and know how to prevent it from getting on to your system.

How Spyware Infiltrates a Computer System

Hackers use several methods to get spyware onto your system. One way is to send you an email with a link. Once you click on and open that link, the spyware downloads itself onto your computer and silently goes about its business of tracking you without you even being aware of it. A second way is through Adware. These are adverts that pop up on your screen and if you happen to click on them, they then install tracking devices on your system. Malware is the more damaging type of spyware. These are Trojans and viruses that infect and damage your system. Hijackers are programs that get into your system and then direct you to websites that you often don't want to view.

How to Prevent Spyware from Getting on Your Computer System

A key to keeping your computer safe is to always be aware of what programs or systems you are using on your computer. Use common sense. Don't browse websites that have questionable content and don't open emails or click on email links from people you do not know. Also, even if the email is from someone you know, if it contains a link that looks even vaguely suspicious, delete it. It could be that your friend's email address has been hijacked and if you open the link, you could be putting yourself system at risk too.

Have a good anti-virus program installed on your system. Run regular daily updates and set the program to scan your computer at least once a week. A good anti-virus should protect you against malware and spyware as well as Trojans and viruses. Make sure that all your incoming and outgoing emails are scanned. If you find that you are getting a lot of junk mail coming through, you may want to increase the security settings on your email. You can also create rules which block future emails from unknown and undesirable sources. These simple steps can help ensure that your computer system has a greater level of protection. It is much better to prevent infection than to try to repair it afterwards.

It is also important to have a firewall installed which acts as a gatekeeper to your system. A good firewall will prevent unauthorized access to your computer system. Your operating system should come with a firewall as standard. Many anti-virus programs have added firewall features which increase the level of your firewall protection. You can change the settings of you firewall from low to high. The problem with have the setting on high is that you could block genuine emails from clients. Test the different levels of settings and see what works best for you.

Another way to protect your computer is to keep your operating system current. Know what systems and programs you are running. Run regular disk clean ups and make sure you delete old files that clog up your system. Sometimes when you go into the directory folders, you may be shocked at the spyware that is sometimes lurking there. Be vigilant about keeping your operating system running efficiently. If your system starts to slow, this could be a warning sign that there is spyware on your system.

The last step is to create regular backups of your system. You never know when a virus or malware will slip through the cracks. If you have your data backed up, at least you will know that all your information is secure. When you back up your data, check that the external drive you are using is clean and free from infection.

by: Dominic Acito

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