There’s no single solution for keeping spyware off your system, but the following tips will help you keep your computer clean.
1. Beware of free software downloads. Spyware often piggybacks on file-sharing software and other free programs and installs itself without your knowledge. Kazaa is notorious for being rife with spyware.
2. Read the fine print. Before you install the program, make sure you read the fine print, including the privacy rules. Does it say it will connect to the Internet without telling you? Does it say it will share information about you with its partners? If so, click the Cancel button or the X in the corner of the installation window to close it down. Before downloading, make sure you read any information about the software on the website as well.
3. Don’t click links sent to you in email or instant messages. Before you click an embedded link, check with the sender, even if you think a friend send you the message. A virus or worm may have taken your friend’s email or instant messaging software. If you click the link, it may send you to a website that installs spyware on your system. This has become a real problem with AOL Instant Messenger.
4. Only install software from website you trust. Why download software from unfamiliar or random websites? Many well-known and trusted websites, such as Download.com offer tons of software that you can safely download and install.
5. Adjust your browser’s security settings. Make sure your browser prompts you before you accept ActixX controls, which cal install spyware. In Internet Explorer, select Tools > Internet Options, and click the Security Tab. Select the Internet icon and click Custom Level button. Go to the “ActiveX controls and plug-ins” section at the top of the nest screen. Enable the first option (”Automatic prompting for ActivX controls”), disable the second (Binary and script behaviours”), and choose Prompt for the remaining four options. Click OK, and then OK again to close the dialog boxes.
6. Don’t click on pop-ups. If you click on some pop-ups, they will install spyware.
7. Visit Microsoft for Updates. Go to www.microsoft.com/protect/default.mspx or www.microsoft.com/technet/security/default.mspx to find the most current patches and security bulletins regarding spyware and other threats.
Spyware send information about you to a website or person over the Internet without telling you, but a personal firewall, such as ZoneAlarm, can stop spyware from “phoning home” and reporting information about you.
