Anti-Spyware Strategies

When malicious hackers attack a company's computer network the cost incurred by the company under attack can run into hundreds of millions of dollars. Losses in employee productivity and technology support staff expenses are just the beginning. Unfortunately small to medium companies will bear the brunt of the financial burden.

The Melissa computer virus, for example, spread rapidly worldwide and caused almost one hundred million dollars in damage. (The FBI apprehended hacker David Smith who was convicted and incarcerated for less than two years).

Here are some practical anti-spyware strategies that can help keep your system free from malicious spyware and adware programs:

• Since many spyware files are downloaded as embedded programs in legal software, run your anti-spyware software program immediately after every download.
• Don't believe everything you read on the Internet. Malicious spyware software can even be downloaded from the Internet just by visiting a particular web site. Always use a personal firewall and anti-spyware software when surfing the Internet. Personal firewalls will stop spyware software programs from infecting your system.
• Don't open e-mail attachments unless you are expecting an attachment and you know the sender's e-mail address. Opening infected e-mail attachments can launch malicious files that infect users computers.
• Make sure you read our glossary as it will help you understand many of the current threats. There are many serious spyware programs around. Some can even search out your credit card numbers and send your personal financial data to other computers on the Internet.
• Viruses are less common in MAC and Linux users because virus developers operate where the potential victims are. With Windows users representing 90% of the operating system market, Windows users are targeted.
• Practice safe computer use when you are online and install a couple of anti-virus programs that are either free or fee based. Although it's worth bearing in mind that a fee based anti-spyware or anti-virus software program will offer better technical support than free programs.
• Keep your anti-spyware and anti-virus definitions or known threats updated. New threats are mounted daily on unsuspecting Internet and computer users.
• Anti-virus and Anti-spyware software programs can be purchased on one or as software packages from a retail vendor.
• Select automatic updates with any anti-virus software of anti-spyware software programs. If a virus is activated I an e-mail attachment, the anti-virus software will detect the virus and prevent infection.