John Dvorak recently wrote a column for PC Magazine titled, “Panic over Spyware“. This got me thinking about the problem and my own battle with these nasty programs that occasionally make it onto my system. If you download “warez” or program “cracks” you’re a prime target for the purveyors of this crap. Even if you just download a P2P application like Kazaa or Bearshare you’ve added several spyware or adware programs even before you begin downloading the latest U2 mp3.
Here are a few recommendations for avoiding Spyware and Adware:
1. Know what you’re installing – Sounds simple enough but most people think they have to download and install a rogue program before they get into trouble. That’s not the case. Many spyware and adware program “piggyback” on better known programs. If you quickly click through the install process or disregard the EULA, you’ll never see what gets installed until it’s too late. If a friend gives you a program to try out and you know nothing about it, don’t just install it. Head over to Download.com and see if the program in question has been reviewed, and most of the time they will tell you if the program contains any spyware or adware.
2. Avoid “Warez” and”cracked” programs, keygens, and other pirated programs – Some of the worst spyware or adware you’ll encounter is hidden inside “crack” codes that look harmless but can wreak havoc on your system. No matter how careful you are you’re playing with fire if you’re installing these regularly. It’s just a matter of time before you’ll be rebuilding your system.
3. Beware free programs – I run a few free programs like Messenger Plus that contain adware but allow the user to opt out during installation. But Messenger Plus is in the minority here. Many free programs will bundle all sorts of crap in exchange for allowing you to use their program for free. Not all free programs are like this but many are. Again, if in doubt, learn what you can about the program from Download.com or Google to see if others have had issues.
4. Install a software firewall – You’ll want a program like ZoneAlarm from Zonelabs that monitors two way communication and allows you to block traffic from individual programs. If you’re on a broadband connection, a hardware firewall is a given.
5. Run a good virus program – There are number of reputable programs available. I’ve settled on eTrust due to frequent signature updates and low memory usage. Make sure you’ve downloaded the latest virus signature as well.
6. Install and use Ad-Aware and Spybot Search and Destroy – These are two free program that will greatly assist in keeping your system clean. RegCleaner is another program I’ve used that’s been able to locate and remove spyware remnants.
7. Bag IE and switch to Firefox as your primary browser – Tired of random menu bars showing up in IE or having your homepage changed without your permission? Give IE and its ActiveX controls the boot. I only use IE because MS has locked down “Windows Update” to only work with their browser.
What programs do you use to fight spyware and adware?
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