Here are several ways you can secure your computer against spyware, adware and other unwanted software. So here is five Steps how you can reduce your chance from be infected.

These are some tell-tale warning signs that your PC may be suffering from spyware-

A You receive many pop-ups
B Your computer is running slowly
C You may have invasive toolbars hijacking your browser
D Your home page may have been hijacked
E There are many other signs which you can know...


Step 1: Use a firewall and Antivirus

Installing a firewall or using the firewall that's built into Windows XP provides a helpful defense against these hackers. Eg: Zonelarm : Not bad firewall, it also monitors your program and which is good is it has firewall, antivirus and spyware.



Step 2: Update your software Definition

If you use Windows XP operating system , one way to help prevent spyware and other malicious software is to make sure all your software is updated.


Step 3: Download and install antispyware protection

One usefull program is spybot : Search & Destroy. Its really a good tool for spyware it also monitors your registry. Remember when installing this software tick where is says use teatime.


Step 4: Browser, Cache and Cookies

Clear all cache and cookies from your web browser. This helps from getting private data from your computer.

Step 5: Services:

If you do not use remote process such as pcanywhere you can disable these services. To access Services go to control panel then administrative tools and services.