Stop Spyware/Adware
Since anti-virus programs don't attack Spyware, you will need to run, and keep updating, a separate piece of software called an anti-Spyware program. I recommend Spy Sweeper from Webroot software, or Adaware from LavaSoft.
Like an anti-virus program, it not only detects and removes Spyware already on your PC but also watches for, and blocks, new Spyware.
Don’t Get Caught by the ‘Phishermen’
Phishing attacks use “spoofed” e-mails and fraudulent websites designed to fool recipients into divulging personal financial data such as credit card numbers, account usernames and passwords, social security numbers, etc.
By hijacking the trusted brands of well-known banks, online retailers, and credit card companies, phishers are able to convince up to 5 percent of recipients to respond to them.
Get Anti-Spam Protection
I know of no anti-spam software that is perfect, but one of the best is MailFrontier Desktop, available at www.mailfrontier.com. MailFrontier Desktop provides the best anti-spam and anti-phishing solution for the individual user.
If you're really fed up, you can turn on the "challenge" feature in this program, which forces unknown senders to pass a simple test that baffles the mass-mailing software spammers use.
Browse the Web Safely
If you are leery of Microsoft's Internet Explorer Web browser, which has a history of security breaches, you may want to try an alternative. I recommend Mozilla Firefox, which is free at www.mozilla.org. It's not only more secure but also more modern and advanced, with tabbed browsing, which allows multiple pages to be open on one screen, and a better pop-up ad blocker than the one Microsoft recently added to its browser.
Be Careful
Don’t download software from the Web unless you know what it is and that you want and need it. If a website says you need some special plug-in to view things, be very wary. Common viewer software, like that from Real Networks, Apple, or Macromedia, should be obtained from those companies' official websites.
Stay Current
You should install Microsoft's new SP2 update, which improves Windows. And you should install all the "critical updates" Microsoft issues for Windows.
Have a computer or technology-related question for Joe? E-mail your question to: askjoe@ericksonmail.com.