How to protect your computer from spyware
Spyware has become an internet nuisance, stealing personal information, filling your screen with pop-ups and even crashing your computer or network. However, there are some steps you can take to help reduce your chances of being infected.
Use a firewall
Though most spyware piggybacks on legitimate software, there are still a small number that can be attributed to remote user access. These attackers rely on an active and unprotected internet connection in order to install malware, viruses and trojans as well as to take control of your computer for other purposes. Many operating systems have firewalls built-in but if your machine doesn't have one installed, it would be worth the investment to research and/or purchase a robust security system that can help to eliminate your risk of a remote attack.
Keep your OS updated
If you are using a Windows OS, it is important to keep your software up to date. This can be done through the Automatic Updates feature built in to Windows. Automatic Updates allow you to schedule regular updates at a time when you are least likely to use your computer and the software can be set to download and install all critical updates as they become available.
Adjust your web browser security settings
Web browsers such as Firefox have become popular due to its increased security features. However, Internet Explorer can be adjusted to provide you with a safer online experience as well. Microsoft recommends that your 'Internet zone' should be set to 'Medium' security or higher.
To check your internet settings in IE, click on tools, choose internet options and then select the security tab. According to Microsoft, all computers running Windows XP SP2, Vista or IE 7 are automatically set to 'Medium' by default.
Use Strong Antispyware Protection
MS Windows now comes equipped with Windows Defender, Microsoft's own antimalware solution. However, since the number and type of malware in the wild is constantly changing, it is usually wise to use more than one antispyware program. To date, there is no single software solution that can detect 100% of all spyware every time. Since antimalware programs often have different malware definitions, you can greatly increase your chances of detecting potential threats by using more than one system scanner.
Be careful online
Despite the hundreds of software solutions available for malware, the best solution is not to become infected in the first place. Most spyware and malware infections can be attributed to user naïveté and could therefore be avoided. Here are a few recommendations to help keep your computer safe.
- Download programs only from trusted internet websites. If you are in doubt about the safety of a specific website, either ask a knowledgeable friend for their recommendation or find another reputable website to download from. It is often worth the time to research an internet site through a search engine to see if it has ever been reported for distributing malware.
- Never assume you already know what is contained in any user agreement. Security warnings and privacy statements should be closely examined before you download and install a new program. Legitimate spyware that is bundled with some instant messaging or file sharing software are often defined in the user agreement.
- If you are viewing a website and see a pop-up or pop under window, never click 'OK' or the top right 'x' to close it. Many spyware distributers will program these pop-ups to automatically install spyware when click anywhere on the window. A safer alternative is to use the keyboard shortcut Alt + F4.
- Beware of file sharing programs, movie sharing programs and free music downloads. Even the more reputable file sharing programs come with built-in spyware that could be explained in the EULA. However, some of these programs will not mention the use of spyware at all. It is also important to know your file extensions when using these programs. Most file sharing networks are riddled with trojans, viruses and spyware that could infect inexperienced users' machines.
- Save and scan all downloads before installing them. Most antimalware programs provide an on demand scan feature. Though this will not 100% guaranteed your safety from malware, it will eliminate most threats.