Anti-Spyware Software - Free Anti Spyware Software

Anti-Spyware Software

Have you noticed the appearance of new program icons or folders that you did not install?
Are you being bombarded by annoying pop-ups?
Have you noticed new toolbars on your web browser that you did not install?
Has your web browser start page changed?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, your computer is probably infected by spyware.

But even if you don't see anything, your computer may be infected, because more and more spyware is emerging that is silently tracking your surfing behavior, or even worse, recording your personal information.

Keystroke Loggers can record virtually everything you do on your computer, including usernames, passwords, and credit card numbers. Everything you type or click on is continually stored in a log file and then regularly uploaded to the spyware website.

By simply browsing to a website, your computer could become infected by spyware. In fact, 9 out of 10 computers connected to the Internet are infected with spyware.

What is Spyware?
Spyware is a malicious program that employs a users Internet connection in the background to send personal information about that user to advertisers or other interested parties without the users knowledge or permission.

Spyware is similar to a Trojan horse in that users unknowingly install the spyware when they install something else, but differs from viruses and worms in that it usually does not self-replicate.

Port Townsend Computers can install Anti-Spyware software on your computer that will remove known spyware and help protect your computer from the threat of imminent spyware.

Computer Service in Port Townsend

Tips And Suggestions
Spyware Prevention and Removal

Install firewall software to block hackers from installing spyware on your computer.

Install anti-virus software to prevent backdoor viruses that might install spyware.

Install anti-spyware software to protect against known spyware.

Update your operating system to remove security vulnerabilities.

Do not click on links within the e-mail. This may download spyware from a hackers website.

Do not click on a link inside a pop-up window. Clicking on the link may install spyware software on your computer.

Use caution when downloading files from the Internet, especially freeware or shareware programs such as screensavers, games, and even anti-spyware software. Ensure that the source is legitimate and reputable.

Do not open email attachments before checking the source.

When installing software always read the End User License Agreement (EULA). It is perfectly legal to hide spyware within another program as long as they mention it in the EULA (Example: "You agree to install third party software").

Never click on Agree or OK to close a window on your web browser, doing so may download spyware on your computer. Instead, click on the X in the upper right hand corner of the window or press the Alt+F4 buttons to close the window.

Sometimes you may be unable to remove spyware because it is in use. Usually the spyware can be easily removed by running your anti-spyware software in safe mode.

To access safe mode, restart your computer and immediately start tapping the F8 key to access the boot menu. Once you are at the boot menu, if necessary select Safe Mode by using the Arrow keys, then press the Enter key.

Once your computer has booted into safe mode run your anti-spyware software. After the spyware has been removed restart your computer to boot into normal mode.

Note: When booting into safe mode you may be asked for an Administrator password, unless you setup an administrator account just leave it blank and proceed.