by Josh Stearns

Spyware has become a huge problem for both business and home computer users. To put it simply, spyware is software that gathers information about you and your search habits through your Internet connection without your knowledge, usually for advertising purposes. Companies use information obtained through spyware to study consumer trends by analyzing what Web sites people visit and what they buy online.

Spyware applications are typically bundled as a hidden component of freeware or shareware programs that can be downloaded from the Internet. Once installed, the spyware covertly monitors your Internet activity and transmits information about you to someone else.

More often than not, once your computer is infected with Spyware, you will get subsequent pop-ups or e-mail spam that relate to what you have been looking at on the Web. For example, if you were looking to buy a new computer on the Internet and spyware was installed on your computer, you might get a pop-up or e-mail offering you a deal on a new computer. Pretty tricky, eh?

Although spyware is, in most cases, legal, it can be a huge nuisance because it slows your computer down and inhibits your ability to get work done. But there are steps you can take to decrease or prevent the loading of spyware on your computer. Here are four things you can do to avoid spyware.

1. Keep your Internet browser security settings at high.

The Internet is riddled with opportunistic spyware programs. If your security settings are not at high, spyware may be able to install itself without your knowledge.

2. Install an anti-spyware software program and run regular routine scans.

Anti-spyware software is designed to target spyware and kill it. Some versions even offer real-time protection to stop spyware from being installed on your computer in the first place.

3. Be wary of the Web sites you visit.

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure: Because spyware can install itself on your computer just by visiting a Web site, consider visiting the sites of reputable companies only.

4. Don’t install programs (including Internet games) on your computer unless you are sure of the manufacturer.

Spyware is often installed with other programs such as plug-ins, so be suspicious of “free” program offers. Companies will generally offer a free program on the Internet that has spyware bundled into the download. Also, be cautious of pop-ups that issue alerts such as “Your Computer is Infected: Click Here to Remove.” These “alerts” are almost always spyware companies disguised as spyware removal or antivirus software.

If you notice your computer has become slower all of sudden or you are getting pop-ups when browsing the Web, do yourself a favor and install a free anti-spyware program. The links below offer manufacturers of free anti-spyware applications that I have personally used and recommend.

Adaware by Lavasoft
http://www.lavasoftusa.com/

Microsoft Defender http://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/spyware/software/default.mspx

Josh Stearns is Vice President of Sales & Marketing at AccuBuild. He can be reached by e-mail at josh@accubuild.com or by phone at (909) 923-2244