Cleaners can remove most of an infection, rendering it temporarily inactive. But components sometimes remain that download more files and re-infect your computer. Sometimes it helps to disconnect from Internet, then reboot after you run cleaner. If you know how to manage a fire wall like Zone Alarm, you may be able to use it to prevent persistent spyware from reconstituting itself.

If your computer is so bogged down with spyware, you may have trouble downloading anti- spyware products before your computer crashes. In that case, you may have to obtain programs from another computer with a CD burner, and then load software onto your troubled computer using a CD.

Scan your hard drive at least once a week with two or more anti-spyware programs because each is likely to find files other overlooks.

Ongoing Anti-Spyware Protection

To prevent future infections, never click on any popup ads or body of any spam emails. Try closing unwanted pop-up ads using Alt-F4 in Windows. The Alt-F4 is a keystroke combination that decreases risk you'll click on a disguised button to close a window that will actually open another window.

Keep your computer up to date with latest security patches. Microsoft offers free updates at http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com, and free CDs can be ordered for users on slow-speed dial-up.

Windows recently announced release of XP's Service Pack 2, which provides additional security measures such as a limited spyware blocker and a firewall.

Protection is an ongoing process since spyware makers are constantly creating new threats. You may download a good computer resources manager and security manager at, (www.onlinesoftwareguide.com/wintask).

Install a personal firewall. ZoneAlarm from Zone Labs has a free basic firewall for personal use. Symantec and McAfee sell popular personal firewall, anti-virus, anti-spyware software.

Next, set computer's operating system for daily security updates.

Also set Web browser to a medium or high-security level. For Windows, go to Microsoft's Web site for instructions. Windows XP users should install Service Pack 2, which makes it close to impossible for software to be downloaded without your being alerted. Consider switching to browser less popular than Internet Explorer, such as Mozilla Firefox (mozilla.org) or Opera (opera.com). They are less likely to be attacked.

If you have any problem implementing any of above, be sure and contact your computer consultant. Finally, practice safe surfing. That means downloading only trustworthy software, reading licensing agreements, avoiding banner ads, and deleting all spam without opening.

Tips for Protecting You and Your Computer

•Do not click "yes" when an Active X dialog box keeps popping up unless you know exactly what you're downloading. •Do not open and delete all suspicious email messages. •Do not fill out any web forms asking for your social security number, driver's license, email passwords, bank account information, or your mother's maiden name. •Do not download or install any software unless you know and trust source 100%. •Do not give your email address to anyone you don't know. •Clear out cookies and other tracking data on your computer. •Try using disposable email accounts when filling out forms on Internet. •Do not enter any sweepstakes or contests online. Most of them capture your personal information and sell it to third party vendors. •Install software to counter-attack Spyware, Adware, Spam and pop-up ads. •You can file a complaint about unsolicited spyware software with FTC at: www.ftc.gov. Click on "File a Complaint."

Websites That You Can Trust To Help

•Ad-Aware (www.lavasoftusa.com) •Spybot (www.security.kolla.de) •CWshredder (www.spywareinfo.com/merijn/index.html) •WinTask, Manages Resources and Improves Security (www.onlinesoftwareguide.com/wintask) •download of Ad-aware and Spybot Search & Destroy (www.download.com) •Spyware information tools, tips, and vendor for Trend Micro software (www.housecall.trendmicro.com) •McAfee anti-virus and anti-spyware software (www.mcafee.com) •Windows security patches and spyware protection information (www.microsoft.com/athome/security/viruses) •Virus and spyware scans (www.pcpitstop.com) •Lists software that may spread spyware (www.spywarewarrior.com/rogue_anti-spyware.htm) •Norton spyware information (www.symantec.com/avcenter/) •Spy Sweeper anti-spyware (www.webroot.com) •Zonelabs firewall (www.zonelabs.com)

Copyright Steven Presar

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