The Internet has made our life easier. With the help of the cyber world, we can now easily talk and meet with people anywhere in the world fast, effectively and for free. Moreover, everyday tasks, such as going to the bank, shopping, reading a book and even taking up new courses, can now be done in the comfort of your own home.

However, as people become more dependent on this new tool, unscrupulous groups and individuals are also starting to gain Internet and computer expertise to find new ways to defraud and make money online. The emergence of viruses, Trojan horses, worms and other malicious software (also known as malware) is proof that bad people are starting to make their niche on the World Wide Web.

One malware that you should keep an eye on is spyware. The aim of this tool is to gain access or control over your computer for commercial gain. A spyware could either secure private information, such as credit card numbers, bank accounts, etc, that can be used for illegal activities, or just take control of your PC and connection to spy on your Net activities or send advertisements or other software to your friends and other people in your contact list.

If you do not want to be a victim of spyware, read on and learn the ways on how you can protect your PC from such threats:

Install And Update Anti-Spyware Software

If you do not want any malware, especially spyware, to infect your computer, you need to invest on high-quality Anti-Spyware Software. Be sure to install such software before you even decide to connect on the Internet.

For additional security, you can also install free ant-software on the Net. You just need to be careful in choosing the free wares you decide to use. It is best to use those that came from reputable companies. When in doubt, just ask your friends and family for help.

Choose Your Web Browser Carefully

Since the Internet Explorer is the most popular web browser, there is a big chance this is what dishonest people will use to spread their spyware. Try using not-so-popular web browsers so that security threat will be minimized.

Be Wary Of Free Software

Many spyware piggyback on software that you can download for free. So if you want to avoid being infected with spyware, viruses or other malware, you have to be extra careful in choosing the free software you install or download. Resist the impulse to download free games, toolbars, messengers or wallpapers from sites and companies that you do not know.

Exercise Caution When Opening Links, Mails, And Other Downloadable Files

The best way to avoid spyware and any other software that can harm your PC is by not opening and downloading every attachment, links and other files that you receive. Many computers have been infected by email attachments, so by now you should have learned from the mistakes of others.

Ensure That Your Firewall Is Always On

Always check if your firewall is on. This is important in defending your PC from security threats and viruses that are just lurking on the Net. Although walls may not deter all spywares, at least you are already shunning away majority of them.

Take Extra Care With Regard To Sharing Networks

When you participate in network sharing or files sharing, you are making yourself a viable target of spyware and other PC threats. You have to accept the fact that the bigger the network is, the harder it is to monitor and keep safe. So take extreme caution if you do not want to fall prey on unscrupulous people on the Net.

Take Security Warnings Seriously

Do not ignore security warnings. Take them seriously and act on them at once, no matter how trivial they may seem.

Stay Away From Malware-Magnet Sites

Just like in the real world, there are sites on the cyber world where malware makers often visit or lurk in. If you do not want trouble, then you must veer away from the following sites: porn sites, sellers of ridiculously inexpensive software, sites of hackers and pirated software sellers, free music and download sites, and sharing programs.

Precaution Is Needed When Installing Software From Unknown Sites Or Companies

The golden rule is to download or install software only from reputable companies. If you are unsure, better follow your gut and forget about installing or downloading a file from that site.

Use Email Services That Has Auto-Scan Services

Since most viruses and malware came from e-mail attachments, it is wise to utilize free email services that scan any incoming mail and attachment automatically.

Install And Update Anti-Spyware Software

Written by: OSAblogger / Bill Wardell - Please Read Our Latest OSA eZine Edition

Popularity: 16% [?]

OSA Technorati Tags: malicious software, Trojan horses, viruses, worms

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