Software Mobile Phones,Handphone And computer

As Windows users online, our computers are constantly under attack by malware - so we employ antivirus software for protection. Email inboxes are flooded with spam- so we use anti-spam programs and techniques fro protection. As soon as we think we have it under control we find out we have spyware and adware programs running in the background monitoring and reporting on our computer activity.

We used to think spyware and adware simply monitors and tracks the sites you visit on the web so that companies can determine our habits to pinpoint their marketing efforts. Many forms of spyware go beyond simple tracking and actually monitor keystrokes and can capture passwords and other information - these pose a definite security risk.

Let's just call it all Malware, and recognize that no category is any less dangerous than the others.

So, how can we protect ourselves from it all? Ironically, many times we invite them in. In fact, removing some spyware and adware might render some programs useless.

For Windows users, here are 5 easy steps to follow to try to avoid or detect and remove these programs:

1. Be Careful Where You Download: If you are looking for a freeware or shareware program search reputable sites like tucows.com, sourceforge.net or download.com. Avoid music sharing sites.

2. Read the EULA: The End User License Agreement. The EULA is a legal agreement you are making with the software vendor. Without reading it you may be agreeing to install spyware or ??? Sometimes it's better to say no.

3. Don't open attachments! Only, only, ONLY if you are sure of the person who sent it. There is malware that can be embedded in an image file.

4. Get Antivirus, Spyware and Adware detection software and SCAN REGULARLY. Use Firefox or IE7 as your browser, they are more secure than others.

5. Enable automatic Windows updates so you get the latest patches and security fixes installed as soon as possible.

If you follow these five steps you can help keep your system protected and detect and remove most malware that does manage to get into your system.