Clean Computer Of Spyware And Other Viruses
Onto the second and final half of the do's and don'ts of computer viruses. Another 400 or so words and you won't have to clean computer of spyware and other viruses, because there'd be nothing for you to clean up.
DON'T
...agree to the terms of the EULA (End User License Agreement) without first reading through everything. For all you know, by agreeing to the terms of the contract, you're also giving your consent to install a 3rd party software (aka spyware). While you can run your anti-spyware program after the accompanying spyware has been installed, there may be times when the original software you wanted installed into your computer will cease to function as a result of the spyware's removal.
Layman's terms? Sometimes, installing a software with spyware isn't worth the trouble, so read the EULA and think twice before you click on “I Agree”.
...just download everything you see on the Web. Keep in mind that some of the most popular download sites on the Internet are also some of the biggest targets for malware programmers and distributors. Do you really need to download that file? If you answer no, then leave it be.
...go to malicious websites that feature pornography, support hate crimes, and such, since these sites are popular sources of spyware and other viruses. You immediately expose your computer to various malwares just by entering the site. No need to download anything to put your computer in jeopardy there.
...open email from unfamiliar sources. These may contain spyware and other viruses that will invade your computer once you've opened them or downloaded the attachment that came with them. Likewise, be wary of email from known contacts if you weren't expecting a message from them or if they have very suspicious subjects (i.e. “Open me”).
If you're suspicious of an email that seemed to come from a person you know, it's best to contact them first through other means, and ask if they did send the email in question. Should your friend say no, you can take comfort in deleting the email or sending it to your spam folder, because it's definitely malware that will eventually force you to clean computer of spyware and other viruses.
...use anti-spyware that you've never heard of, or seems to lack credibility. It's highly likely that that anti-spyware is actually spyware in disguise, aimed to endanger your computer instead of keeping it safe. Trust your instincts. When it comes to prevention, suspicion and paranoia are always justified.
...share your passwords with others or have your computer remember your password. Either could cause complications which may lead to you having to deal with a bunch of corrupted files, or trying to explain to your friends why their hard drive was deleted moments after they opened an email from you.
Now that you know the do's and don'ts of computer viruses, don't hesitate to put your knowledge to good use. Doing so will significantly lower your chances of ever having to clean computer of spyware and other viruses.
