Secure Your Network

Spyware is a type of malware that is installed on computers and collects information about users without their knowledge. The presence of spyware is typically hidden from the user, and can be difficult to detect. Spyware programs can collect various types of personal information, such as Internet surfing habits and sites that have been visited; but can also interfere with user control of the computer, such as installing additional software and redirecting Web browser activity. Spyware is known to change computer settings, resulting in slow connection speeds, different home pages, and loss of Internet or functionality of other programs.

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.