This is a warning from the head of the Information Technology Dept. at a large insurance company in Texas.There is a relatively new brand of “virus” that is hitting a lot of computers these days. Known as “spyware” or “malware”, it is a form of advertising that is both bothersome and pernicious. Because the technology is in its infancy, fighting it and getting rid of it is difficult. Unlike the anti-virus software, which has had many years to mature, this new menace has few programs that can safeguard your computer against it.
There are some precautions, however. Please take a look at this list and do your best to avoid the pitfalls.
1. Never download “search assistant” programs.
2. Never accept coupon or rebate offers on the internet.
3. Avoid all “Internet optimizers” or third party toolbars.
4. Never click on anything within a pop-up to close it; instead close it by clicking the X in the corner.
5. Never use “file sharing” programs, such as KAZAA or any other P2P software.
6. Be careful what internet sites that you visit, as some sites will automatically drop a spyware cookie into your system.
7. Run the Disk Cleanup Utility frequently, and make sure that all of the boxes are checked.
8. Get help as soon as you realize that pop-up ads or other advertising is running on your computer. Quick action often helps.
These links will familiarize you with the threats you need to watch for and give you free downloads to protect your system.
Spyware Guide Spybot Search & Destroy Zone Alarm Pop-Up Stopper LavaSoft MailWasher (anti-spam) Avast Anti-Virus Detecting Spies Spyware Dangers Adware Uninstallers