Why Anti-Virus Software is Not Enough

An anti-virus program by itself cannot detect files or programs bundled with spyware. Spyware is a specific kind of malware designed to secretly install onto your computer. Since most spyware programs do their malicious activities in the background, you may not even know your PC is spyware infected. In addition, there has been a surge of fake anti-spyware programs on the Internet. These fake anti-spyware programs will warn you that your PC is infected with spyware and viruses even if it is not. Then, the program will try to convince you that the only way to remove these infections is to pay for a full license. An example of a fake warning message that a rogue software can produce is shown. Windows will never tell you that it will automatically download an anti-spyware tool or tell you that your PC is indeed infected.

Although, these fake spyware programs are usually not harmful initially, they do in fact disable your anti-virus software. As a result, your computer is now unprotected from viruses. Having a anti-spyware software installed on your computer in addition to an anti-virus software will detect, remove, and prevent spyware and virus infections.

Some of the more advanced anti-spyware programs on the market even have an anit-virus module installed. This way your PC only needs to run one security program. Be wary of fake anti-spyware programs that are promoted by malicious websites; these fake websites usually look very official. Check user reviews and trusted websites before downloading and installing an anti-spyware program. A legit and good anti-spyware program will have the following characteristics:

• Will not scan your computer without your permission


• Has a user-friendly interface


• Has the ability to update its spyware database for the latest threats


• Creates restore points before removing suspected files


• Has real-time protection monitoring

You should also keep up-to-date with the latest spyware threats . If you want to check to see if your PC is spyware free, try the recommended anti-spyware software to scan your PC now: