| Spyware was in headlines for the first time in 1999 | | | | to do it is by utilizing the automatic update option in the |
| when a freeware game called " Elf Bowling" circulated | | | | computer. But the problem with this is if the computer |
| with spying software along with it. Since then | | | | components are not genuine but pirated ones, then the |
| spywares are creating a havoc in the computer world. | | | | automatic updating of the operating system may work. |
| Some of the downloadable software comes with a | | | | So one has to buy genuine parts and software and |
| licensing agreement that a spyware program will be | | | | keep updating regularly |
| installed along with the requested software. But most | | | | Installing anti virus software |
| of us do not go through the agreement properly. | | | | Anti virus software prevents viruses from getting |
| Spyware exists as independent executable programs. | | | | attached to the programs in the computer and prevent |
| These malicious software have the ability to monitor | | | | them from corrupting the files. Many reliable anti virus |
| keystrokes, change the default home page on the | | | | software are available some of which are |
| Web browser, read cookies, scan files on the hard | | | | downloadable for free from the net. But one should |
| drive, install other spyware programs and even spy | | | | regularly update the antivirus software to prevent |
| other applications, such as chat programs or word | | | | danger from newer virus threats. |
| processors. The spywares continuously relay this | | | | The Firewall utility |
| information back to the person who is spying. He will | | | | Hackers use viruses and Trojan Horses to find |
| either use it for advertising/marketing purposes or sell | | | | unprotected computers and access them to delete |
| the information to another party. | | | | information, steal personal information or corrupt the |
| Steps of protecting your computer against spywares | | | | files. Firewall security prevents these hackers from |
| Protecting against spywares is very essential to | | | | doing these. Three types of firewall security are |
| safeguard personal identity and other vital information. | | | | available |
| There are four essential steps that are essential to | | | | Hardware routers: for home networks connected to |
| safeguard your computer against this malicious | | | | internet |
| software. | | | | Wireless routers: for wireless network |
| Updating the operating system regularly | | | | Software firewalls: for single computers |
| Installing an anti virus software and updating it regularly | | | | The Anti spyware software |
| Utilizing the firewall software | | | | The antispyware software protects the computer |
| Utilizing the anti spyware software | | | | from those spying the web browsing habits of the |
| Regularly updating of the operating system | | | | victim, will prevent unwanted pop up windows and |
| It is always essential to install all security related | | | | prevent uninitiated changes in the computer settings. |
| programs as soon as possible. One of the best ways | | | | |