How did this happen: Spyware

Are you a conscientious computer user wondering how spyware could have happened to you? There are many covert ways that spyware can weasel its way into your system, so stoop kicking yourself and learn how to prevent further harm. One of the main ways spyware enters your system is through those annoying pop up ads. Though enticing, don't click on those ads that ask you that trivia question that you absolutely know. Show us how smart you are and CLOSE the malicious trivia pop up. That free Vegas vacation that pops up on your screen may be hard to resist, but as the adage goes: if it sounds too good to be true, it is. Many disguised spyware promise great deals and free stuff, but the only gift you'll receive is a computer teeming with pesky spyware. Next, those spam emails that are constantly cropping up in your inbox are not only annoying but they are potential spyware threats. It's best to delete any email that seems strange and unfamiliar. The truth is, if the email is important the sender will make it known to you in a clear non-suspicious way. Do you love to burn mixed CDs for your friends from music you downloaded for free. Well, as great as gift-giving seems, file sharing programs are spyware hot-zones. As you have probably realized by now, spyware is an ever-present threat. To really ensure spyware immunization you should consider purchasing an anti-spyware product that will protect your computer for you.

Spyware and the Law

Unauthorized access to a computer is illegal under computer crime laws, such as the U.S. like the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act. Most computer users do not authorize spyware to infiltrate their system, so infection by spyware could be called an unlawful act. The law has characteristically prosecuted very few spyware developers. Spyware producers often argue that users have agreed to the terms of spyware when they consent to the user agreement. Often, a cryptic referral to spyware is hidden within these user agreement documents. Currently some states are drawing up and enforcing stricter laws on spyware, but until then you must protect your PC with anti-spyware software. For a full list of spyware products and accompanying reviews see http://www.consumerfirstreviews.com/

Vista anti-spyware protection has holes

Enex Testlab performed an independent study comparing leading anti-spyware products to the integrated spyware blocker of Windows Vista throughout 2006. The results showed that Microsoft Defender's quick scan blocked 46.61 percent of dangerous threats and their full scan blocked 53.39 percent. Tested at the same time with the same sample-set, Spyware Doctor's quick scan blocked 83.26 percent and the full scan blocked 88.69 percent. Clearly, Vista's integrated spyware protection does not keep your PC completely safe. Be sure to use an independent anti-spyware product to prevent spyware from ravaging your computer. A review site like Consumer First Reviews will help you find the right product at a reasonable price. http://www.consumerfirstreviews.com





for the complete article on the research results see http://www.pctools.com/news/view/id/164/

Can My AntiVirus Sofware Prevent Spyware?

No.
Though it would seem that, since spyware is unwanted, your antivirus software should detect it. However, your antivirus software will NOT detect spyware because spyware is different from a virus. The intent of a virus is to be exposed and public, after it sneakily enters your PC. The intent of spyware, on the other hand, is to remain hidden so that it can gather its information unnoticed, for weeks and months. Because of the difference between spyware and viruses, neither antivirus software or anti-spyware software is equipped to block both threats. You must purchase both products to ensure PC security. To learn more about antivirus and anti-spyware products see http://www.consumerfirstreviews.com/antivirus