Install a Spyware Scanner on Any Computer Connected to the Internet – And Use It

Beware! There is all sorts of malware out there in cyberspace! Malware refers to any software program designed to be installed on your computer without your knowledge or consent, to do things with and/or to your machine that you don’t want done. Computer viruses are the first malware programs that come to mind. These nasty bits of software can do anything from freezing your computer to erasing your hard drive. We’ve all heard many horror stories.
One type of malware not everybody knows about is called spyware. These programs are designed to track your computer usage and send the results to a third party. This third party could be your boss, keeping track of your work and making sure you’re not conducting personal business on company time. Or, it could be an identity thief in some foreign country, waiting to capture your login information when you do your online banking. And all kinds of people in between, from spammers to pop-up ad generators. Any time you download files or interact with other users through the Internet, you run the risk of having spyware installed on your computer. For this reason it is crucial that you have a spyware scanner installed on any computer you use to connect to the Internet. And use it. Regularly.
A spyware scanner is a program designed to detect and remove spyware from your computer. There are many such programs on the market, from downloadable freeware to boxed programs costing hundreds of dollars. The better-known software companies like McAfee, Symantec, Norton and others generally offer bundled programs, or even online subscriptions, to deal with the full gamut of malware – viruses, spyware, adware, trojans, and they usually include a firewall to keep hackers out. Most also come with a utility that allows you to set a time to regularly scan your computer for fresh infections.
So, do a little research. Ask your friends, or someone from your company’s IT department. Search the Internet. Find out the spyware best solution for your computer. Install a spyware scanner on any computer connected to the Internet. And use it!