Spyware: What it is and how to avoid it Spyware (a.k.a. Malware) is the name for software programs that discreetly install themselves on your PC without your explicit knowledge or permission. These programs can establish background connections over the Internet to download information about you. Most often Spyware is used to silently track your surfing behavior and create a marketing profile of you that is then sold to advertisement companies. Typically, the advertisement companies use this information to deliver targeted marketing called “adware”. As annoying as adware can be, Spyware can represent an even greater threat. It can include surveillance programs, key loggers, remote control tools, and Trojans. The security and privacy implications of these are undesirable to any PC user. Below are some tips to avoid being a victim of Spyware. 7 Tips to stop Spyware from invading your PC 1. Windows 2000, XP, Vista, and 7 users should not give themselves local administrator privileges. Use a separate “Admin” account to install software and manage your PC. 2. Keep Windows and Internet Explorer patches updated by enabling Automatic Updates or by visiting the Windows Update web site. 3. Install the latest versions of Adobe Reader and Java and keep them updated. 4. Install anti-virus software and keep the “definitions” updated. McAfee, Symantec, Norton, and AVG Grisoft are some of the most widely used. 5. Install a desktop firewall to prevent programs from accessing the Internet or hackers accessing your PC without your knowledge. Download a free copy at: www.zonealarm.com. 6. Adjust your Internet Explorer Security settings to “Disable” or “Prompt” you regarding ActiveX controls and plug-ins. 7. Install and run anti-Spyware software such as Malwarebytes (www. malwarebytes.org), Ad-aware (www.lavasoftusa.com), Spybot Search and Destroy (http://safer-networking.org), or Microsoft Security Essentials (www.microsoft.com/security_essentials/). Resources: http://www.lavasoftusa.com http://safer-networking.org http://www.free.avg.com http://www.zonealarm.com This article is for information purposes only. The Credit Union does not recommend, support or guarantee any of the products listed. The Credit Union is not responsible for any changes or programs installed on your system. 5/11 .