How To Avoid Spyware - Top Ten Essential Tips For Indian Users

Talking of spyware, your computer should be prepared right from the beginning in order not to turn yourself into a victim. It’s easier said than done, of course - there are tons of solutions for you to save your device and data from cyber threats, but how to avoid spyware? Let’s have a look at some tips below to get the answer you're looking for. 

How To Avoid Spyware - Essential Tips

1. Turn on automatic update mode on Windows

From the control panel, set your Windows system to automatic update mode. Each month there will be a new Microsoft critical update. Most of them are able to detect and eliminate specific spyware threats.

2. Make sure that you've installed antivirus software on your computer

Have an anti-virus software package installed on your computer and continuously update them. You can find many of them online, some are even free. There are several popular brands for you to choose:  Norton, Microsoft Defender, McAfee, Spybot, Search & Destroy, Pest Control and Grisoft,... Your Internet service provider will also recommend you to some other helpful solutions. 

3. Be careful with unverified sources 

Keep in mind that you're putting your computer at risk when visiting/downloading files from unreliable sources. Instead, go to official websites such as download.com for other free utilities.

4. Some apps are very tricky. Don't get trapped yourself!

Once you are about to download any software, make sure you have fully read the user license agreement before you confirm to install. Stop the installation right when you feel unsafe.

5. "There ain't no such thing as a free lunch"

Be wary of any free anti-spyware software ads. Most of them are fake and trick users with the name and logo of an official publisher. Unfortunately, this trick is widely used to spread spyware and other malware to those who accidentally click on those ads. If you’re in need of any brands of anti-virus software, head to the company’s website and make sure it’s the official one. 

6. Your browser should be secured

Set your browser and operating system up to medium level or higher to receive better security. Sometimes you will get a couple of warnings, but it’s just for your own safety.

7. Firewall is the first keyword every time

Make sure your computer has a firewall. In case you’re using a home network, use it with a separate router instead of sharing your network through another device. This makes those strangers stay one step further from you.

8. Get out of suspicious websites as soon as possible!

Questionable websites can be another threat. Get out immediately if you visit one and find it suspicious. 

9. Always do a complete virus scan session

When you see any virus alerts on the website you’re in, do not touch it. You can close it by heading to the Task Manager using control-alt-delete and choose “End Task”. Then, run your installed anti-virus software and do a complete scan to the system. 

10. Attachments from fake emails are full of malware

Mail phishing is an old-fashioned type of cyber attack, but it never fails to harm us. Please do not risk opening any e-mail attachments when you doubt its source’s officiality. 

Steps To Remove Spyware

If you have tried everything but the spyware is still there, you should immediately stop and turn off the Internet connection so that your information will not be leaked. Next, open your anti-virus software and run a complete scan. It is also advisable to reach out for help from your computer’s manufacturer or your Internet service provider. 

Always keep your anti-virus or anti-spyware software updated because it can be very reliable in warning users, detecting problems, and being a troubleshooter when needed. However, you can only experience that when your computer has already had a solid protection package and its operating system is continuously updated. 

In case all those How to avoid spyware manipulations fail again, your hard drive may need a reformat, the operating system and software need to be reinstalled, and also do a copy with your data and redirect them to your drive. We know this sounds exhausting, but it actually helps to refresh the system as well as removing unimportant data.

Therefore, by creating more space for your hard drive, the system will possibly run smoother. Just one more thing, only do this after you’re certain that your backup data is saved and clean.  

These days computers are having to face daily increases of threats, but at the same time, they are also working hard on developing more sophisticated defense mechanisms. And thanks to applications, solid operating systems, and reliable software, users now can be almost fully prepared to fight against any threats including spyware.

We all hope this How To Avoid Spyware guide will help you stay away from cyber toxics. Good luck!

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