subject: How to Get Rid of Nasty Spyware Bugs and Protect Your PC Freely? [print this page] How to Get Rid of Nasty Spyware Bugs and Protect Your PC Freely?
Frustrated is not even close to describing how you feel. But, knowing where these nasty little things hide is a good first step to prevent spyware. It's sad but true, spyware on your computer is virtually always your fault. Without knowing it we've all clicked on buttons that say one thing, but do another totally horrible thing!
Hiding Place #1 - The Dreaded Drive-By Download
This first dirty little trick comes in the form of an automatic pop-up window. This will do everything it can to download and install spyware on your computer.
If you do not have a good spyware program watching for this, you won't even get a warning about what is happening. And before you know it, the spyware has your computer running slower than an old Commadore 64!
Quick Tip: At the end of this article you will find a link to trusted spyware monitoring software
Hiding Place #2 - Buried Inside Software Installations
Various applications -- primarily file-sharing clients -- place spyware when you complete their installation procedure. Pay attention during the install! You may be getting more than you bargained for.
If you are unfamiliar with the company, visit their official website and do your research. Plus, keeping your spyware software up to date will catch the ones that slip through your watchful eyes.
Quick Tip: Take a further look at "free" versions. Make sure it is a trusted product.
Hiding Place #3 - Sneaking in Through Browser Add-ons
Add-ons like toolbars are very popular on the internet right now. Don't get me wrong, some do what they say. Some though, are no more than disguised spyware. Other forms of add-ons include animated pals or additional search boxes.
Some forms of add-ons are browser hijackers -- these go deep into your machine, and without the right software, you may never get rid of them. You can visit your browsers support website to find trusted plug-in partners. A good rule of thumb is: if you're not sure, don't install.
Quick Tip: I can't say this enough, read everything when you install programs!
Wait, there's more! To help you protect against spyware, here is a FREE trusted spyware scan that will automatically find your spyware problem.
