How to Stop Spyware from Hijacking Your Computer

Prevent spyware from hijacking your computer .

Spyware is a type of malware that infiltrates a computer without the user knowing. Spyware often tracks personal information of computer users and can sometimes send that information to hackers and advertisers. The spyware may sometimes use the information to spam the user, by generating numerous spam advertisements. Therefore, your the privacy is in serious jeopardy when your computer is hijacked by spyware. Fortunately, there are effective ways to prevent spyware from invading your computer.

Instructions

1. Fortify your computer with a strong firewall. A strong firewall can block spyware from infiltrating your computer. Windows operating systems come with a default firewall. Go to the Windows Security Center and click on Turn On Windows Firewall to protect your computer.

2. Avoid malicious websites that may contain spyware. Spyware programs usually originate from sites that promote violence, gambling or illicit and adult content. Avoid downloading from these sites. Spyware is sometimes be downloaded with software.

3. Use web filter programs to block access from harmful websites. You can block access to suspect websites by using the following web filters: K9 Web Protection, Sentry Lite, File Sharing Sentinel and We-Blocker. Web filters also give the options to adjust the filtering level. The higher the filtering level, the more websites that will be blocked.

4. Use antispyware software to prevent spyware infiltration. Spyware can be blocked by using antispyware software such as Malwarebytes, Microsoft Security Essentials and Avira Antivir. Update the antispyware software, and perform a scan to detect spyware in your computer. Perform scans regularly to ensure that your computer remains free of spyware.

References

• Indiana University:What is spyware or adware, and how can I remove it?
• Perdue University: Spyware

Resources

• K9 Web Protection
• Sentry Lite
• Malwarebytes
• Microsoft Security Essentials