Can You Avoid Adware?

Yes You Can!

Exactly what do you need to do? First, you need to acknowledge that adware and spyware are real, and that they’re more than simple nuisances. These types of software are dangerous to your personal information, your personal security and the security of others in the computing world. If you acknowledge that your computer can be infected, (don’t worry, it can), you can begin to take the steps you need to take to protect yourself, your computer and others whom you might come in contact with while connected to the Internet and other networks.

Once you’ve acknowledged that infection is possible, take steps to limit your negative exposure to this malware. For starters, install anti-virus and anti-spyware software like Spyware Doctor on your computer. Make sure that you have the current version and update these software packages regularly. Also don’t make the assumption that a single spyware package offers full protection, Most don’t. Spyware Doctor is the recognized leader in anti-spyware software, and in rigorous tests, it found spyware infections that other products left behind.

Limit your visits to unknown Web sites. If you’re still not sure, don’t visit the site. Also keep in mind that familiar sites can be hijacked, even for short periods of time. If a favorite site changes appearance or behavior suddenly, scan your computer carefully for signs of infection. Understand that advertising – even those ads placed by Google – can lead to infected sites. Be very careful about following links in advertising.

If you like to download files (music, videos, shareware, etc,) stick to trusted sites. Normally, download sites will scan files for infections, but that’s not always the case. Worse, files you want to download can also be bundled with unwanted malware, spyware and adware. Choose downloads carefully. If you’re evaluating an application, try downloading directly from the manufacturer, instead of picking up the file from a download site. Note any odd behavior from your computer after downloading a file or application.

Keep Tabs On What Is Running

Scan your computer regularly and note any odd files. Periodically, check the Task Manager to see what’s running on your computer, particularly if you notice that your computer isn’t behaving properly. If you find some unrecognized program there, use the Task Manager to halt the suspect program and do some research on what the application is. Keep your Spyware Doctor and anti-virus software updated at all times. New malware crops up each day. While some programs can be discovered easily, malware authors are very inventive.

A little extra caution can go a long way toward helping you avoid nasty and prolonged malware infections.
Photo Credit: Thomas Hawk