How to Keep Spyware From Hijacking Your Business

One Third of All Internet Users Have Been Hijacked by Spyware

A recent survey by Consumer Reports® reveals that 1/3 of all the Internet users have been hijacked by spyware. As a home business owner, you should know what spyware is, and you should tell your customers. Spyware is computer software that sneaks onto your hard drive while you surf the Web. Once you log off, the spyware remains on your computer (for good until you get rid of it), stealing valuable information from your computer while you work.

Symptoms of spyware on your computer can be as innocuous as sluggish performance or can be as lethal as having credit card information stolen. No matter what way you cut it, spyware is harmful to your home or small business.

How to Prevent Spyware:

Never open spam or read e-mails from unknown senders or solicitors
Avoid clicking on banner ads
If you download free software, read the license agreement carefully, If the download package contains “data collecting” software, do not agree and do not download.
Finally, the most effective way to prevent spyware is to use anti-spyware software. The leaders in the business are listed below. Visit their Web sites for more information and to purchase their spyware protection software.

Norton AntiVirus® (Symantec)
McAfee®
Microsoft®
Pcpitstop.com
Download.com