Spyware:
Software that is installed on a computer to collect information about the user of the computer. This information is then typically transmitted back to the maker of the spyware to be used anaylized, or sold.
Cookies:
Information about the user that s stored locally on the computer. The problems with cookies is generally based on the content that is stored inside them. cookies can contain, websites visited, names, age where you live, zip code, phone number, and oter personal information.
Virus:
A computer program that is intended to disrupt the computer user. Computer Virus's are not always destructive in nature but have the potential to destroy files.
  • Avoid Peer to Peer Networks (Kazaa, Morpheus, etc...), Peer to Peer Networks are full of spyware and Virus's

  • Be aware, Free-ware and Share-ware regularly contain Spyware. Check the computer after installing

  • Do NOT OPEN suspicious Emails (Especially with Email Attachments

  • Listen to the news, Large Virus Attacks are broadcast on the news

  • Backup Backup Backup. CD Writers and CDs are Cheaper than your Lost Time

    Spyware Protection Software
  • Purchase and Use a Hardware Firewall with High Speed (Broadband) Internet

  • Turn off the Preview Pane in your email software

  • Avoid using Outlook for email, many viruses are designed for Outlook

  • Use a program like Netscape, Mozilla, Firefox, or other web-based email services

  • These Protection Tools have scheduling functionality, Use Them

  • Check for updates on Spyware and Anti-Virus Tools Regularly

  • Run Checks Regularly

  • Run Windows Update Regularly
    Anti-Virus Software

  • Getting a Virus is common, ANYONE can get a virus

  • Be a informed user, Protecting yourself protects other people

  • Many recent viruses use your personal address book to spread

  • Just having a Anti-Virus DOES NOT Protect you

  • There is no "Perfect Formula" for not getting a virus, viruses are designed by Hackers to bypass security

  • What is safe today is not tomorrow

  • I said It Before, BACKUP, BACKUP, BACKUP

  • Viruses and Spyware WILL slow your computer down and CAN slow it down dramatically

  • Run checks at Night, or when going to work

  • Encrypt, by at your own risk. Encryption is good, but make sure there are reliable backups

  • WARNING With a Harddrive crash, recovery is nearly impossible without high cost when using encryption