Computer Technology Tip

Beware of Spyware

Beware of Spyware Spyware has become the most prominent computer security problem. Spyware is a hidden software program. It is often used to monitor the browsing and shopping habits of computer users. Spyware can also be a remote control program that steals confidential banking and personal information.

Spyware has quickly become the most prominent internet security problem. According to the National Cyber Security Alliance, spyware infects more than 90% of home PCs. Recent surveys show that spyware also infiltrates the network of corporate computers.

Spyware is often coupled with free downloads, such as free music, game, and software downloads. Spyware may slow down the computer, hijack your homepage, and create uncontrolled pop-up advertisements. Some spyware programs can remain unnoticed, secretly gathering information from the computer. Once installed, spyware is difficult to remove without the help of dedicated antispyware software.

Due to the rise of spyware activity, antispyware programs are in great demand these days. But are these spyware removal tools ? Do they provide the security consumers need?

There are many reports that some antispyware programs installed their own spyware and adware to the computer. One consumer was quoted saying: "It's a rip-off. I downloaded the free trial of an antispyware program, only to find out that it added its own adware to my computer." Other consumers have complained that the antispyware program they use cannot detect all spyware programs. Some even slow down the computer and create pop-up advertisements.

There are a few good antispyware programs in the market today. On the other hand, dozens of spyware removal programs are blacklisted by consumers. Beware of spyware removal tools that are heavily promoted by e-mail campaigns. Never run any free downloads and free scans from unknown software publishers. Their programs may as well be spyware programs themselves. Read independent product reviews from renowned computer magazines or reputable sources.

My recommended security suite consists of 3 free programs.

First, install Avast Home Edition - Free Antivirus for anti-virus protection, including spyware detection. Avast will block in almost all cases attacks on your computer in real-time. It also can detect and remove viruses, spyware, Trojans, etc.

Second,should something get by Avast, install Malwarebytes Anti-Malware. Malwarebytes does not provide real-time protection. Instead, it detects and removes existing infections very effectively.

Third,Should parts of a severe infection remain in your computer the last recommendation is a program called Superantispyware Free Edition. No one program can do everything so having a layered security blanket is a sound approach. All 3 of these programs can be downloaded and installed from www.download.com Just type the program names into the search field, click the search icon and scroll down to the program and start the download process.

The free McAfee program supplied by Comcast is not a solid offering. Yes it does the basics but its stability and detection/removal is suspect. If you have McAfee I recommend you uninstall it and go with my selections. Verizon also offers a security package but it costs $6.00/month. The maker of Verizon's security program is not made public. I wonder why?

Help and information is available in the "Mill". Just come to the PC Computer Club meeting which is held the second Tuesday of each month at 7:00 PM upstairs in Winfield Hall. We will also tackle any remaining Comcast questions about the analog/digital conversion

By Don Trauger, Kennett Village

To get answers to your questions about computers, please come to the PC Club meeting. The computer club meets the second Tuesday of each month at 7:00 PM in Winfield Hall.