24 June, 2016
Spyware is a general term for the malicious programs aimed at gathering information from a computer system without the consent of the user. They record keystrokes or monitor user’s internet activity to collect sensitive data such as usernames, email addresses, passwords, credit card numbers etc. The data is then transmitted to the hackers who may use it to initiate various online attacks. Spyware may infect a computer system through a malicious email attachment, visiting a spam website or in the form of a drive-by-download.
Listed below are some useful tips to protect against spyware:
Install anti-spyware software
The most critical step in protecting your computer system is to install a reliable anti-spyware software. Most anti-virus programs may detect and remove malware, but they may not be able to identify the diverse variants of spyware. Make sure you update it regularly and configure it to check for the latest versions available. Enable a complete scan of your computer’s hard drives on a regular basis to detect any spyware program that may have discreetly infected the system. It will add an additional layer of protection.
Be cautious while surfing the web
You should not click on unknown URLs or visit malicious websites. The browser plugins included in the anti-spyware software should be enabled to protect against infections. Software should be downloaded only from reliable sources after carefully researching about its reviews and information that it may access on your computer.
Keep operating system updated
An updated operating system will make your computer less vulnerable to the online threats. Software vendors often release the security patches to fix any flaws that may be exploited by the cybercriminals. Enable automatic updates so that your computer automatically scans and downloads the latest software versions periodically.
Do not click on ads or pop-ups
Flash advertizements and pop-ups are common ways through which spyware is downloaded into a computer. To avoid this, make sure you do not click on or enter any confidential information in these windows. It is possible that the hacker may be tracking the way you respond to these ads or tracing the data you enter. If you want to close an unwanted ad or pop-up, click on the ‘X’ icon instead of the ‘close’ link within the window.
Centex Technologies is a leading IT firm providing complete online security solutions to the business firms in Central Texas. For more information, you can call at (855) 375 – 9654.