Popups and Spyware Protection? Why Users Should Not Just Rely on the Google and MSN Toolbars!
This article exposes the downside of relying on free software to block popup ads in the wider context of adware and spyware protection.
A common definition for adware is that of any software which runs, displays or downloads ads on computers. Some adware are called spyware because their functions are invasive: They consist of obtaining then sharing some personal information about the users without their consent or knowledge.
Adware popups have become a common irritation for most users and many are now looking for free ways to disable them. Google and MSN toolbars offer free popup blockers functionality and many users rely on them for protection. Unfortunately only a minority of users think about the relationship between popup ads and spyware, and even fewer think about spyware protection and prevention beyond blocking popups whilst browsing. Yet experience shows that both the removal of adware and spyware, as well their prevention are necessary steps to protect users privacy, preserve the integrity of their systems and enable a pleasant on line experience. By contrast, simply blocking popups whilst browsing creates a false sense of security. This is due to the fact that in reality, the most serious problem with popup ads is not that they are a permanent irritation, but rather that they are the symptom of spyware infection. This issue is clearly evidenced by the fact that many popups appear when computers are not even connected to the Internet.
Changing the browser settings is free and a step in the right direction
Blocking adware popups whilst browsing is easy enough. Changing the privacy settings so that popups can no longer appear on screen can be done as follows:
· Select Control Panel in your computer
· Click on the Internet Options icon
· Click on the Privacy tab.
· There is a box next to “Turn on Pop Up Blocker”.
· Tick this box and you will block adware popups.
Once the settings have been changed, users should adjust the privacy levels on their computer. Another option is to install the Google or MSN toolbar. Both toolbars will improve security when users browse the Internet. For more information, click on free popup blockers.
But, how about achieving complete protection? Are most users missing the bigger picture?
Unfortunately most users focus on just blocking adware popups, and forget that their computer is probably already infected with adware and spyware. The popup blockers offered by Google and MSN are clearly useful, yet only deal with one aspect of privacy and system integrity protection. For more information click on block spyware.
At this point, it is recommended to consider more broadly, how to protect the users’ privacy as well as preserve their computer integrity from spyware and adware attacks. In addition to running an anti-virus software that is up to date, users should remove the spyware and adware on their computer. Frequently users download adware and spyware unknowingly.
The removal of adware and spyware can be achieved easily using popular anti adware and spyware programs, which usually also offer the functionality to block popups. The most popular adware and spyware removal tools benefit from frequent updates, which rely on research teams who review the latest adware and spyware threats. Adware and spyware removal software can also block malicious programs . This approach is therefore more effective than the reliance on free popup blockers. For more information click on adware spyware removal.