Are You Getting More Spam than Usual?
In just the last few weeks since Christmas, I have noticed a marked increase in Spam, some containing malware. (Malware is spyware, virus, etc.) More than likely, this increase is due in part because of folks getting computers for Christmas with no activated virus scanners and no spyware removers on these computers. These computers are installed with versions of Windows that need to be updated, but new computer users are unaware that Windows has to be updated at least once a month to 'patch' all of the security holes.
New computer users (we call them 'Newbies') don't have any idea that the scumware makers are just waiting for them. Internet Explorer is still using ActiveX and the security holes are still there. So as soon as these 'newbies' go online, and they all do, the malware purveyors are pouncing on them and making 'Zombies' of all those new computers.
Zombie computers are computers that have been invaded by malware and are being used by spammers, malware and virus to send out thousands of emails containing more spam, virus and spyware.
So if you know anyone that is a 'Newbie' or if you are a 'Newbie', get educated about the crummy malware/spyware bums on the Internet. Tell them about the free spyware removers that can help protect them from the bad guys. Let them know they can get a free firewall and a free virus scanner!
Free Security Downloads
The most of the free programs do require manual updating on a regular basis. If the programs are not updated, then they can't do the job properly. If they (or you) can afford a commercial security suite, these will generally update without user intervention. So if you don't want to have to do the manual updating, get commercial programs. A good security suite should contain a firewall, virus scanner and spyware scanner. Some contain spam filters as well. Security experts maintain that an all in one suite will not do as good a job as individual programs. However, most of the major security suites have good programs and they are tested and work well together.
A list of good security suites can be found here: Security Suites
These programs are not options, they are necessary! Don't let your friends own a Zombie computer! (Or you!)
A word of caution, there are a number of websites trying to sell 'so-called' security programs that are rip-offs of the good security programs, not very good or in fact are spyware and not really a good program. Some of the so-called security programs will offer a free scan and tell you they have found all sorts of 'bad' stuff after their 'scan' completes. Of course, you have to pay them first before they will fix the 'bad' stuff. If you decide to pay for a security program, check reviews of the program first by going to sites that review software, like CNET, or PC Mag.