10 Tips For Avoiding Spyware & Malware

1. Use a Firewall

Firewalls are designed to block unauthorized access to your computer while allowing authorized communications. This means it will allow your connect with your favorite websites, while blocking hackers accessing your personal computer or network. Firewalls also prevent malicious software from installing itself on your computer or network.

While Microsoft has included firewall software with its Windows software since the introduction of Windows XP, other software and hardware options are available to users who wish to have more powerful functionality, or less configuration.

2. Take advantage of free anti-malware tools

While some of the best security software available is waiting for you at your local electronics store, don't forget that there is a variety of free tools available online for free. Consider using programs like AdAware Free, MalwareBytes' AntIMalware, Tenebril SpyCatcher Express, BillP Studios WinPatrol,.and SpyBot Search & Destroy.

3. Don't forget other security software

Besides firewalls (hardware and software) and anti-malware, use anti-virus applications to prevent Trojan horses and viruses from making their way onto your PC.

4. Keep your Windows up-to-date.

Hackers and other unscrupulous individuals are constantly finding ways to exploit security flaws in Windows. Microsoft closes these holes in its operating systems by frequently releasing patches and prompting users to install them. Ignoring these messages can leave a machine vulnerable to malicious invaders.

5. Be cautious with peer-to-peer file-sharing services.

Applications like Lime Wire and BitTorrent have been very popular over the years with users looking to find music, movies, software and other forms of media (both legally and illegally). If you are looking to download a DVD quality version of the latest Hollywood blockbuster for free, be aware that your download may be a hoax and could install a virus or trojan. If its sound too good to be true, it probably is.

6. Be suspicious of all e-mail attachments

A lot of viruses and malware spread through the use of e-mail attachments. The e-mail will tempt the user by enticing them to opening the malicious file (it could be naked pictures of some celebrity or a supposed security update). There are a few questions you need to ask yourself before opening the file.

- Did the e-mail come from someone you trust?
- Were you expecting this e-mail?
- Can you get confirmation from the user that they sent this e-mail to you?

If you answered 'no' to any of these questions, there is a good chance that the attachment is bad.

7. Be cautions of links in e-mails, IM profiles and IM messages.

Treat these links in the same way as the e-mail attachments. If something seems suspicious, don't click on it.
Also, consider using an e-mail service (like Gmail or Yahoo Mail) that scans incoming messages for threats.

8. Don't install anything without knowing what you are installing.

Have you ever had a popup window appear and tell you that you have viruses and spyware, so you should install there software?Be cautious. Some spyware and malware poses as legitimate software in order to find its way onto your computer. Also, some EULAs (End User License Agreements) will inform you that by installing their application, you' are also installing some spyware. Check forums and software repository sites as well, since some EULAs don't tell you about the additional spyware.

9. Avoid adult and warez sites.

These types of sites can be a nightmare, as the victim's computers can be plagued with spyware and other little nasties. Web-filtering and monitoring software like NetNanny help block problematic sites based on URL, keywords and subject matter (although there is a chance you may inadvertently block other sites as well). Avoiding the temptation can help you prevent any future problems with your PC.

10. Use Firefox

Internet Explorer is a target of many hackers, thanks in part to their use of ActiveX controls. ActiveX allowing the browser to access other program, and allows the hacker to exploit a variety of security holes. Once the spyware is installed, attempts to repair the browser without reinstalling the entire operating system become far and few between. Thanks in part to its open-source development and non-support of ActiveX, Firefox becomes a safe alternative to Internet Explorer.