Want To Love Your Computer?
 | Is your computer acting strange? Is your computer running slower than normal? Are you no longer able to open your Internet browser? Or does your Internet browser act like it has been hijacked and take you to a new home page or to no page? Do you feel like your computer has been taken over with pop-up messages from advertisers? |
This list of questions is only the beginning of what can go wrong with your computer when it becomes infiltrated with spyware.
What is Spyware? Spyware, also known as malware or adware, is software that is installed on your computer without your knowledge or permission. This software then begins to take control over your computer by monitoring your activities, installing other software, and change settings on your computer. For more on spyware, here is the link to Wikipedia's page on spyware and a link to Microsoft's informational page on spyware.
How is spyware different from viruses? Viruses transport themselves around and seek to reproduce in many ways. Spyware waits for visitors to specific Web sites and may open your computer to viruses. Neither is what you want for your computer.
But how does spyware gain access to your computer?
Spyware can sneak into your computer in a variety of different methods. Do you download free software from unknown resources? Do you share files using a Peer to Peer network? Do you click links sent to you in emails from unknown senders? Do you click the links in pop-up ad windows?
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What can you do to stop nefarious spyware from infiltrating your computer?
Here are some tips to keep your computer clean and safe?
 | Keep your system up to date, including all anti-virus and anti-spyware packages. New spyware comes out everyday. Don't follow email links offering anti-spyware software. These links may actually install the spyware they claim to be keeping off your computer. Do not click on links within pop-up windows. Pop-up windows are often spyware activators. Close the pop-up with the "x" on the titlebar and not the "close" link, if any, within the window. Be careful when downloading files from the Internet. Be sure the source is legitimate and reputable. Be skeptical of free downloads. A free program may cost more than it is worth. Create an administrator password for your computer. |
FAQ: If I use Kenyon's anti-virus software, I'm safe. Right?
Answer: No antivirus program can make your computer invulnerable to viruses. There is always a window of time after a virus is released and before the antivirus software knows how to prevent it. Plus anti-viruse software does not protect against spyware.
So what can you do if you think you have spyware on your computer? Click here to find out more.