In the last article we covered the best Anti-Virus software.
Today, let’s cover the other big problem that can invade
your computer: SpyWare.
First some definitions for you:
Spyware - A general term for a program that surreptitiously
monitors your actions. While they are sometimes sinister,
like a remote control program used by a hacker, software companies
have been known to use Spyware to gather data about customers.
Adware - can do a number of different things to your system.
It can monitor and profile your web usage and direct pop up
ads based on your surfing habits. Most peer-to-peer file sharing
programs come bundled with Adware and the user is only notified
of this is in the fine print of the End User License Agreement.
Adware is not as dangerous as other infections, but it can
be incredibly annoying.
Malware - Malware is slang for malicious software. Malware
is software designed specifically to disrupt a computer system.
What makes a great Anti-Spyware solution?
Below are the things to look for when selecting a program
to protect your system and personal information from spyware,
adware and malware.
Feature Set – Does the anti-spyware include tools to
enhance the ease of spyware detection and removal? Does the
software offer descriptions of detected spyware so you can
determine whether or not you want to keep each item? Are there
auto-update and auto-scheduling capabilities available to
save you time and keep you up-to-date and protected? Are there
“undo” capabilities in case you accidentally delete
something you actually need?
Effectiveness– Does the product provide real-time protection
from spyware—preventing its installation instead of
just removing it afterward? Is the product effective at finding
and removing the many different types of spyware and adware?
Does the manufacturer keep their product up-to-date with new
spyware definitions?
Ease of Use – How easy is the product to use? Can you
quickly find the features you are looking for? Are the descriptions
easily understood or do they assume you know all the appropriate
jargon? How quickly does the software perform the scan?
Customization – Can you target select portions of your
computer to save on scanning time? Are there other options
available to accommodate different needs, such as opting out
of removal of certain items, or scanning to remove spyware
that alters your Internet settings?
Ease of Setup / Installation – Is it easy to download
and install the product? Can you get it up and running without
consulting a book or a tech support person?
Help / Support – Is there a Help section installed with
the product? Is it easy to find answers to your questions?
Is there someone you can call for support? How quickly does
the support staff respond to your email questions?
With the right solution for removing and detecting spyware
in place, you can keep your privacy protected and your PC
running smooth.
Highest rated: Spy Sweeper
Best Price: US$24
Full Review:
http://anti-spyware-review.toptenreviews.com/spy-sweeper-review.html
Free Spyware & Adware: Ad-aware SE is your best option
for keeping spyware and adware under control on your PC.
Lavasoft Ad-aware SE 1.06 http://www.Download.com
Free Malware: Emsi Software provides the Malware scanner a-squared
Free completely free of charge for private use. But it is
not a very limited version, it is a full tool to clean your
computer from Malware. Not only Spywares, as detected by classic
Anti-Spyware programs, but also especially Trojans, Backdoors,
Worms, Dialers, Keyloggers and a lot of other destructive
pests, which makes it dangerous to surf the web.
a-squared Free http://www.emsisoft.com/en/software/download/
