* HELPFUL RESOURCES

As my primary (but not only) protection, I use "Spybot Search & Destroy (v1.3)" which is a very popular, very effective and FREE anti-spyware application (donations are 'welcome' says program's author). This tool is easy-to-use and can be configured to run silently on your system, preventing download of known spyware and other such malicious code via Internet Explorer.

As with all such tools, however, it's only effective when it is kept up-to-date! Use at your own risk and be sure to read carefully instructions for downloading and setting up application.

For more information, visit http://www.spybot.info/

A great informational resource can be found at http://www.majorgeeks.com/. This Web site is a forum for discussion, downloads, advice, and information related to all sorts of computer problems and technical issues, with an entire thread dedicated to topic of spyware. Simply use "Google" search utility on "Majorgeeks.com" home page (mid-way down left-side column) to search site for information you want. But be forewarned--much of this site is for technically inclined!

* PROTECT YOURSELF

There are countless other anti-spyware and anti-parasite tools available out there, some for free, some at a cost. Some are fairly automated, some a bit more hands-on. My advice, if you're not comfortable navigating spyware landscape yourself, is to contact a trusted technical resource and have him or her set-up protection on your computer and/or network.

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Copyright (c) 2004 by Matt McGovern--All rights reserved.

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Download? Download?! This word is sacrilege to many network administrators. Well you needn't worry because IBM, 'Big Blue', has lent its name and resources to ensuring that this is a safe and reliable process.

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Gandhi once said: "life is full of seemingly inconsequential acts, but it is absolutely essential that we do them." This seemingly small act may yield research that can improve quality of life for all. Visit: http://www.worldcommunitygrid.org/ and help contribute to scientific history.