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PostHeaderIcon What is Spyware and How to Protect Against It

Spyware is very widespread on the internet and you need to know how to stop it. Spyware is a malicious piece of software that is installed on computers for the purpose of obtaining information about the computer user. The spyware program collects this data without the user being aware, the user in most instances, will not be aware that spyware is even installed on their computer. But some Spyware will spawn pop-ups and interfere with computer usage.

Spyware can collect user information, browsing habits, web sites visited, keystrokes and much more. In many cases, There are many times when the Spyware will also interfere with the computer settings. It may redirect certain webpages, change the browser homepage, install other Spyware and it can  slow down computer performance dramatically.

Detecting and Removing Spyware

Sadly, Spyware can be very difficult to detect. Unless you are a computer expert, you probably have no idea about Spyware and if it has infected your computer. Getting rid of spyware can be even more difficult. It often recreates itself on startup and is very time consuming to remove completely. It also adds itself to the Windows Registry, which no user should modify, unless they are an expert.

The best advised method for detecting and removing spyware is with the use of third party tools. There are many programs available on the market, from FREE to very costly. Most products will do a great job, but generally you will need more than one anti-Spyware product to be completely safe.

For keeping your PC completely free of Spyware, we recommend XoftSpySE and PC Tools Internet Security Suite. Both of these are free downloads and you can scan your PC right now to ensure it is free from Spyware and other nasties. You can find these anti-spyware tools here, for free download. These programs will also block further infections, keeping your PC protected into the future.

Points for preventing Spyware:

  • Take caution with the websites you visit
  • Never install untrusted activeX or .exe files from a website
  • Do not open email attachments unless you are completely sure it is OK and from a sender you trust
  • Always use firewall software
  • Always lock your PC when you are away from it

We recommend that you scan your computer on a regular basis. It is impossible to know when Spyware will infect your PC, and some of it can be very harmful. Stay Safe! Learn more about removing Spyware.