How to Keep your Computer Clean
Our users often ask us how they can further protect their computer
from unwanted applications such as spyware and adware. In addition
to relying on the high quality protection of Spyware Nuker 2004
here are a variety of easy things you can do to keep your computer
clean and running smoothly.
Keep Windows up to date
Some virus and spyware/adware threats utilize known bugs and exploits
in your operating system to install or perpetuate themselves. Keeping
Windows up to date helps ensure that you're computer is no longer
vulnerable to these methods. You can update Windows by visiting
http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com/
Adjust your Internet Explorer security settings
Many websites use what is referred to as "drive-by installations"
that rely on your Internet Explorer security settings to be configured
too low. If ActiveX is set to always allow then many sites can install
applications on your computer without your confirmation or acknowledgement.
This is a serious risk! Note that Windows XP Service Pack 2 users
are already provided additional protection against "drive-by
installations" and do not need additional security adjustments.
However, if you are not running Windows XP Service Pack 2 it is
recommended you perform the following adjustments which will block
some ActiveX and cause the remainder to prompt you prior to installation:
- Open Internet Explorer
- Click Tools
- Click Internet Options
- Click Security
- Click the Default Level button
- Your Security Level should now be Medium
- Click the Custom Level button
- Set Download Signed ActiveX Controls to PROMPT
- Set Download Unsigned ActiveX Controls to DISABLE
- Set Initialize and Script ActiveX Controls Not Marked As Safe to
DISABLE
- Click OK to save your changes
Use a firewall
A firewall is a piece of hardware or software that helps protect
your computer from unauthorized intruders. It does this by making
your computer virtually invisible to other users on the internet.
Many software firewalls go beyond merely protecting you from inbound
internet attacks and also protects you from unknown software running
on your computer. It does this by alerting you to new applications
that are attempting to run and providing you the opportunity to
block or allow them. Blocking spyware/adware doesn't physically
remove it from your computer, but it does prevent it from contacting
it's servers which likely prevents it from displaying advertisements
or sending your personal data abroad.
Surf and download cautiously
You should only download programs from websites you trust and be
sure to read the End User License Agreement (EULA) carefully as
many may indicate unwanted behavior such as downloading and displaying
advertising content or harvesting your personal data and sending
it abroad.
Use Spyware Nuker
Though you may have applied the operating system latest updates,
configured your browser to provide you with added protection, and
are using a firewall to further protect your computer you may find
yourself infected with spyware, adware, or other unwanted programs.
Your best option for full protection is to install and utilize Spyware
Nuker
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