Posts Tagged ‘Computer Security’
July 29th, 2011 | 
Author: Spyware, adware, diallers, and web bugs can easily be installed onto a PC without the owner even realising. These infections can slow down or crash the computer, change a browser’s home and search pages, track surfing habits or even open up the PC to hackers ready to take passwords and personal details if not traced and removed. That’s where programs like NoAdware become invaluable.
NoAdware protects the computer with:
• PC immunization – to block rogue installations
• browser and PC shields – to prevent blacklisted URLS finding their way into Favorites or hijacking the browser
• scheduling scans to remove infections
PC immunization protects against a regularly updated database of recognized programs known to be spyware, adware, unauthorized toolbars or similar. Requests by these programs to install themselves on the computer will be blocked, eliminating many popup ads, preventing surfing habits being reported and stopping passwords being sent to unscrupulous con men. If one of these programs does get so far as attempting to install itself, NoAdware will stop it from doing so.
Browser and PC shields provide real time protection against hijackers. A highjacker is not to be confused with a hacker. A hijacker changes the home or search page URL to what it wants them to be, sometimes even locking itself in and preventing the preferred URL being put back. NoAdware will prevent these hijack changes, as long as the appropriate filter is switched on. There is also a Favorites menu alert which makes an announcement when a URL is added to the Favorites. This ensures every one added is a genuine URL added by the PC owner.
One of the fun parts of owning a computer is, of course, access to the internet. The worldwide web is chock full of useful information, readily available at your fingertips! It is also home to potentially lethal viruses, many of which can wreak havoc on your system within moments. The following four programs can help you avoid trouble; best of all they are absolutely free.
Firefox – a web browser for the ages. Okay, a web browser that beats Internet Explorer by preventing pop ups and harmful scripts from being downloaded to your computer. Lots of nifty features too, including tabbed browsing, live bookmarks, and tons of add-on features.
Spybot Search and Destroy – gets rid of adware, spyware, and malware. Blocks the installation of spyware before it occurs; works in conjunction with anti-virus software, not as a replacement for one.
AVG Antvirus – offers basic antivirus protection including scanning email attachments for viruses and scanning of all hard drives, removable drives, and external drives on your computer. A paid version does some additional tasks and includes technical support.
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Posted in Software | Tags: antivirus, Computer Security, freeware, malware, shareware, software, Spyware, trojan horses, virus | 
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Most people are aware that there are continuous security issues with Microsoft’s Windows operating system and other programs. However, what most people do not realize is how easy it is to significantly improve your computer’s security and reduce the likelihood of becoming a victim to ever increasingly sophisticated threats that lurk on the internet. These steps should take less than a couple of hours to complete and should not clean out your wallet.
1) Windows Update – the first crucial step you need to take to make sure that all your Microsoft applications have all the latest product updates installed. These updates or “patches” address security vulnerabilities and other issues. Microsoft usually issues these updates on a monthly cycle. Visit the Microsoft website or switch on automatic updates from the Windows Control panel. Even if your “new” computer is second hand this is still a critical first step. If you buy a used computer with Windows XP make sure Service Pack 2 or SP2 is installed.
2) Strong Passwords – people often overlook this but having well thought through passwords is an important element of your computer security. A strong password should include at least 8 characters with a mixture of text, symbols and numbers. As a minimum you need to make sure the services most at risk have a strong log-in password. These services include your bank, credit card, other financial services like PayPal, your email address and any other services like Ebay which hackers can use to generate profit.
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