How Can I Prevent Spyware?

There are a couple things you can do to prevent spyware from infecting your computer system. First, is to get a reliable anti-spyware program. 

There are several of them currently in the market including stand alone software packages. 

Other options provide the anti-spyware software as part of an anti-virus package. This type of option is offered by companies such as Avast, AVG, Symantec, McAfee, etc. 

Anti-spyware programs can combat spyware by providing real-time protection, scanning, and removal of any found spyware software. 

As with most programs, update your anti virus software frequently. As discussed, the Internet Explorer (IE), mozilla firefox, google chrome, opera or other latest developed browsers have now been better developed to prevent spyware programs now because they previously liked to attach themselves to the functionality of browsers.  

Spywares attempt penetrating the IE’s Internet Explorer (IE), mozilla firefox, google chrome, opera or other latest developed browsers weaknesses. Because of this, many users have switched to variuos browsers. 

Spyware programs can accomplish a multitude of malicious tasks. Some of their deeds are simply annoying for the user; others can become downright aggressive in nature. Spyware can:

1. Monitor your keystrokes for reporting purposes.
2. Scan files located on your hard drive.
3. Snoop through applications on our desktop.
4. Install other spyware programs into your computer.
5. Read your cookies.
6. Steal credit card numbers, passwords, and other personal information.
7. Change the default settings on your home page web browser.
8. Mutate into a second generation of spyware thus making it more difficult to
9. Cause your computer to run slower.
10. Deliver annoying pop up advertisements.
11. Add advertising links to web pages for which the author does not get paid. Instead, payment is directed to the spyware programmer that changed the original affiliate’s settings.
12. Provide the user with no uninstall option and places itself in unexpected or hidden places within your computer making it difficult to remove. 

However, if you prefer to stick with Internet Explorer (IE) or other latest developed browsers, be sure to update the security patches regularly, and only download programs from reputable sources. 

This will help reduce your chances of a spyware infiltration. And, when all else fails? Finally, if your computer has been infected with a large number of spyware programs, the only solution you may have is backing up your data, and performing a complete reinstall of the operating system. 

Stay safe online and offline. Have a good time