Spyware

In response to the staggering growth of spyware, a small industry specialized in anti-spyware software has emerged. Running anti-spyware software has become a widely recognized element of computer security practices for computers.

For instance, statistics have shown that nearly 90% of all computers are affected by spyware. To put it in perspective, that is virtually everyone with an Internet connection!

Protect your personal information and stay safe online by following these quick and easy security tips provided by LAVASOFT:

1. Be sure to have anti-spyware, anti-virus, anti-spam and firewall software, and always have Windows auto-update turned on.
2. Only go to websites you trust. Be cautious of free, file-sharing programs, which are often bundled with sneaky spyware.
3. Read all End User License Agreements and Privacy Statements carefully before installing new software.
4. Never click “Agree” or “OK” to close a pop-up window – that can trigger spyware. Only click on the red “x” in the corner or click on Alt + F4 to close the window safely.
5. Update your software regularly to make sure you have all the latest security updates.
6. Use an updated Web Browser to make sure you’re taking advantage of its current safety features. Firefox or Opera are great alternatives that may help lower your risk of malware attacks.
7. Adjust your Browser security settings to Medium or Higher.
8. Do not let other people use your computer.
9. Be wary of e-mail attachments and links in both e-mail and instant messages. Use caution even when the message appears to come from a safe sender, as identity information in messages can easily be spoofed.
10. Secure sensitive online information through file encryption software.
11. Be cautious about giving out your personal information to anyone. Find out why the information is needed, and if it’s absolutely necessary to give out.
12. Shred digital documents that contain personal or financial information before discarding them. This prevents hackers from bypassing information that has not been permanently deleted from your computer.
13. Choose secure passwords with both numbers and letters. Never use birthdays, family or pet names.
14. Never log into your bank or other financial accounts from public computers or from wireless networks where login information can be stolen.
15. Stay alert to the latest scams. Awareness and caution are effective methods to counter fraud.
16. Share security tips you learn with friends and family.

In addition to the advice above, please check out the list below for specific software programs that we currently recommend to our clients:

Malwarebytes has developed a variety of tools that can identify and remove malicious software from your computer. You can download a free version or the full version, which unlocks more enhanced features.

UnHack Me is specifically designed to detect and remove Rootkits. A rootkit is a program that installs a “backdoor” on a computer or network, giving a hacker full control. It hides files, registry keys, and network connections from your eyes. This program is free, but is usually for more advanced users.

Lavasoft Ad -Aware combats the most complex forms of malware, protecting you from viruses, spyware, trojans, rootkits, keyloggers, password stealers, and much more. Minimal strain on system resources and advanced real-time detection technology.  A free version is available along with Business, Pro and Plus.

AVG is an anti-virus software that keeps you safe from harmful sites, provides protection against viruses and spyware, and has automatic updates to ensure consistency and efficiency.  There are both free and upgraded versions.

Spy Sweeper provides the most comprehensive anti-spyware solution available – continuous monitoring, advanced detection, automatic defense updates, and free customer support.  Starts at $39.95/year for up to three computers.

Please keep in mind that these programs need to be updated regularly, and not all of them are needed simultaneously. Only one is sufficient depending upon your needs, and some programs can identify more malware than others. We do recommend, however, that if you were to get an “infection” on your computer, that you should run a combination of these programs to ensure all viruses are found and removed.

Surf safely. Secure your network.

Essentially, Green Computing is the study and practice of designing, manufacturing, using, and disposing of computers, servers, and associated subsystems—such as monitors, printers, storage devices, and networking and communications systems—efficiently and effectively with minimal or no impact on the environment (whew!). In a nutshell, it is the term used to denote the efficient use of resources in computing.

Now, I’m not the tree-hugging – let’s start a revolution – peace, love & happiness – type (not to sound stereotypical or anything – trust me, I’m not judging). But, I do believe that even the smallest changes and commitments in the way we use computers and technology, do make a big difference in both the environment and our business models. Whether it’s turning off your monitor when it’s not in use, refurbishing and reusing old computers, or server virtualization – we must be proactive in our efforts to help pave the way for green computing. After all, every little “click” counts.

Our Green Resolution for 2010
Over the past six months we embarked on a study which proved that 50% of the time systems were logged on, they remained idle. In an effort to enable our clients to do more with less, we recognized the need to provide them with the same quality of technology, in a quantity that makes sense for their job function. As a proud supporter of Green Computing, GoBeyond IT is proud to announce the launch of the Hosted Hourly Desktop: a fully-hosted Microsoft Desktop that give companies the flexibility to pay for what they need, when they need it. The Hosted Hourly Desktop provides current and future clients with an opportunity to right size their technology – conserving energy and their budget.

What’s your green business resolution for 2010?

Lindsey Paolucci, Marketing Manager, GoBeyond IT