The big buzz words today for anyone who owns a computer and surfs the internet is Spyware and Adware. Spyware is software that installs itself onto your computer without your consent. Once the spyware has been successfully installed, it will monitor your surfing habits for marketing purposes. Some of the more malicious spyware will collect your keystrokes - this will allow them to collect your personal information and credit card numbers. Spyware has become a terrible nuisance and, more importantly, a potential security threat to all PC owners.

It is common for people to confuse "adware" with "spyware". Adware is software that comes bundled with a program that is probably free. This is how the company offering the software can afford to give it away for free. In return for the free program, the user will view some ads. However, some of these adware programs have tracking features, which causes potential dangers.

Do's:

1. Make sure your computer is setup to download and install Windows updates "Automatically". This will ensure your computer is receiving the latest security updates from Microsoft.
2. Install a good, well-known anti-virus program (such as Norton, McAfee, AVG). Set up your anti-virus program to download the latest virus definitions as often as possible and scan your computer on a daily or weekly basis.
3. Beware of some "free" anti-virus programs on the Internet; they may be fake and end up installing the spyware you are looking to avoid.
4. Install a separate anti-spyware program. Several reliable, free programs that you can download are Malwarebytes, Spybot, and SuperAntispyware.
5. Be careful when installing any program on your computer. Many software programs bundle additional programs with them that are installed at the same time.
6. Keep an eye on what your children are doing on the Internet. Monitor what sites they are visiting and the files they are downloading.

Don'ts

1. Avoid downloading anything from an unrecognized source, especially if it is offered for free. If the offer sounds too good to be true, then you may be downloading more than you bargained for. Stick to reputable sites for downloading - such as iTunes for music, etc.
2. Try and stay away from installing Internet Explorer toolbars. They are a known target for unwanted spyware.
3. Don't click on any advertisements while surfing the Internet. If you do receive a pop-up ad, click on the X in the top right hand corner to close it.
4. Don't open attachments or click on links in emails from unknown senders. Best practice - don't open the email at all if you don't know who sent it to you.
5. Stay away from file-sharing websites - they are notorious for spyware.



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