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Computing at Cornell • CIT Contact Center (HelpDesk)

Spyware/Adware Prevention

The best way to fight this type of unscrupulous behavior is to follow a few basic guidelines for prevention:

  • Keep your system updated with the latest security fixes. Some spyware or trojans gain access through flaws in the operating system or browser designs. Also keep your anti-virus software up to date. Some spyware may gain access through viruses or worms.
  • Installing a personal firewall might alert you to the presence of spyware on your system when the spyware attempts to access the internet.
  • You might consider installing software that automatically detects spyware attacks. This works like the real-time protection feature of anti-virus programs. When you start using this type of software, initially it will pop up questions every time you use certain legitimate applications; over time you can train it to be less intrusive. Spybot - S&D's TeaTimer feature is an example of this type of software. Because spyware is so variable, running more than one utility will give more complete protection.
  • Using a different browser instead of Internet Explorer may offer some protection because so many attacks specifically target Internet Explorer. Many people use two browsers, Internet Explorer for specific sites that require it and another browser for general web surfing, especially when visiting unfamiliar sites that could be sources of malicious software. You can also lock down Internet Explorer to avoid having ActiveX controls downloaded without your knowledge.
  • Think before clicking on any pop-up boxes while browsing a web page. Also think before clicking on the cute animation you were told to look at in an e-mail you received.
  • Think before downloading and installing that "free" piece of software you just found while browsing the web. Do you really need it to do your work?
  • When installing software, read the license agreement completely. If something is not clear or you do not understand the agreement, do not accept it. The license may state, explicitly or implicitly, that the software you are installing includes spyware.
  • If you encounter software that includes unwanted (spyware) software, look for an alternative that may offer the same features but without the extra baggage of unwanted software.