How Can I Prevent or Combat Spyware?

There are a couple things you can do to prevent spyware from infecting your computer system. First, invest in a reliable commercial anti-spyware program. There are several currently on the market including stand alone software packages such as Lavasoft's Ad-Aware, Windows Defender, Spy Sweeper, or CounterSpy. Other options provide the anti-spyware software as part of an anti-virus package.

This type of option is offered by companies such as Sophos, Symantec, and McAfee. Anti-spyware programs can combat spyware by providing real-time protection, scanning, and removal of any found spyware software. As with most programs, you need to frequently update your anti-virus software.

As discussed, Internet Explorer (IE) is often a contributor to the spyware problem because spyware programs like to attach themselves to its functionality. Spyware enjoys penetrating IE's weaknesses.

Because of this, many users have switched to non-IE browsers. However, if you prefer to stick with Internet Explorer, be sure to update the security patches regularly and only download programs from reputable sources. This will help reduce your chances of a spyware infiltration.

And, When All Else Fails?

Notice I said "when" and not "if"? As spyware is growing in destruction and it covers easily more than 90% of the computers (that's you and me, 9 in 10!), the only solution you may have is backing up your data and performing a complete reinstall of the operating system!

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