Spyware Blockers: How To Remove & Block Spyware

Here’s what I discovered about spyware blockers:

Spyware is a pain in the …. and as the threat of infection has increased, so has the demand for protection. Spyware blockers and anti-spyware programs tackle the problem in 2 ways.

1. Spyware blockers prevent the installation of spyware software on a computer. All incoming data is scanned for spyware software and when detected its installation is blocked.
2. Protection can also be given by using spyware detection that finds and removes spyware software that has already been installed onto a computer. Daily or weekly scans are recommended and when spyware is detected, it can be removed or at the users choice left on the computer.

Some spyware blockers offer a combination of prevention and cure. Incoming data is checked for spyware allowing its installation to be stopped. In addition the program also searches and removes spyware that has been installed.

Unfortunately spyware programs are modified to try to beat spyware blockers. So regular updates are required to maintain security and protection. This should be an important consideration when choosing a spyware blocker. Are regular updates provided as part of the service? If not the anti-spyware program will soon become obsolete.

So what are the important features of Spyware Blockers?

A Trusted Brand

Some spyware pretends to be anti-spyware. So a person whose computer is infected may search for a spyware blocker, make the wrong choice and actually install more spyware. Only install a trusted brand with a strong track record of success. Check for independent recommendations.

Regular Updates

Regular updates are essential for spyware blockers to maintain their effectiveness. Make sure that your chosen provider offers updates to combat new threats.

Free Scans

Many spyware blockers offer a free scan of your computer. This typically takes about 2 minutes and should discover if your computer is already infected. If it’s not, you’re OK for now… If it is infected you can then decide how you wish to remove the spyware.

Many reputable companies offer free scans, before offering a solution if spyware is found. You usually pay for the solution. Check all free spyware blocker software to make sure you can trust it.

Comprehensive Protection

The best blockers offer protection against all forms of spyware attack. These include phishing, drive-by downloads, pop-up ads, rogueware scare tactics, browser hijackers, keyloggers, malicious tracking and advertising cookies, suspicious ActiveX objects and Trojans.

Free Customer Support

The majority of computer users use their computer as a tool and do not understand technical jargon. Customer support is essential for many to help them when problems arise. Consider this when making your decision.

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Protecting Your PC from Spyware 

Take these simple precautions to protect your PC from Spyware:

Question Every Download and Software Installation.

The best protection against spyware is not to download it. Automatically reject requests to install new software, plug-ins and toolbars unless you really need them and totally trust the provider. If you have any doubts, do a quick Google search on the program and see if anyone has reported spyware problems.

It can be boring, but take the time to read the license agreement of any software you download.

Be extra careful with “free” downloads and file-sharing applications.

Block Pop-ups

Internet Explorer 6.0, Firefox 1.0 and other browsers can automatically block all web sites from showing you pop-up windows. Configure your browser to alert you each time a site wants to show a pop-up. You can then choose to view the pop-up or not. Always make your choice based on how much you trust the site.

Exit Pop-ups with Care

In the world of spyware a “No thanks”, “Agree”, “OK”, “Close” or “Cancel” in a pop-up can activate the spyware download. Always click the red “x” to close the pop-up. Better still use a keystroke combination to close the window. For Microsoft Windows users this is Alt + F4 on your keyboard.

Check Your Browser Security Settings

Most people browse the web using Microsoft’s Internet Explorer. Microsoft recommends setting the security settings for the Internet zone to Medium or higher. This automatically restricts the information a website can access from your computer.

Most spyware is targeted at people using Microsoft’s Internet Explorer browser because it is the most widely used. Using other browsers can reduce your exposure to spyware.

Update Your Software

Update your operating system and web browser software. Providers like Microsoft are vigilant and very responsive to spyware threats. You will increase your protection if you download updates regularly. The best option is to allow automatic updates.

Install a Spyware Blocker

It makes sense to install a spyware blocker. Make sure you use a well known, tried and tested supplier. Spyware Doctor has been downloaded over 100,000,000 times and offers a free 2 minute scan for spyware on your PC. Windows Defender protects Windows Vista and Windows XP SP2.

Install a Firewall

Most Spyware is downloaded from the internet, but some can be placed in your computer by hackers. A firewall blocks unauthorized access to your computer and will alert you if spyware already on your computer is sending information out.

Back up your Data

Back up any data that you’d want to keep if your computer crashed. Make this a regular habit.

If you believe your computer might have spyware on it, immediately stop shopping, banking, or doing any other online activity that involves user names, passwords, or other sensitive information. Confirm that your security software is active and current and run it to scan your computer for viruses and spyware, deleting anything the program identifies as a problem.

 

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