Paul's guide to defeating computer viruses, ad/spy-ware, and internet fraud:

(Note: This is not a discussion of spam or anti-spam solutions. Unfortunately, unless you are very techie, your only defense from this annoyance is with whatever solution your ISP provides.)

Always be suspicious:

  • First, remember that the internet is very much like the Wild West. It’s lawless. It’s full of liars, con-men, thieves, vandals, sociopaths, predators, and worse.

  • When web browsing, don't run any programs or installers. When in doubt, click No, Cancel, or Don't Run. If it is unclear how to cancel it, right-click on the titlebar and select Close.
  • If you see windows pop up that say things like "Your computer may be at risk! Click here to clean/scan/protect/etc your computer", this is a trojun virus program trying to fool you into running it.

  • Don't install software from untrusted sources - and a referal from a friend that "This little app is really cool/handy/whatever!" is not trustworthy. Most free applets, tray icon tools, web browser toolbars or extenders, etc. tend to be come with hidden spyware and adware. Before installing anything do a quick search with the name of the application and the word spyware (example) and review the results.

  • Always be suspicious of e-mail attachments. If you have any doubts, do not open them. Delete them, or call the sender on the phone and verify that they actually sent it.
  • Never trust the source of an e-mail. Viruses usually come from your most trusted friend, who's computer is infected and e-mailing you.

  • Never believe any e-mail that claims to be from your bank, or PayPal, or E-bay, especially if they look really official and require you to visit the site to update your account information. These e-mails are always frauds. Never ever give out financial or private information to any web site that solicited you this way in an e-mail.

  • Don't propagate e-mail chain letters or hoaxes by forwarding "internet hugs", virus warnings, or shocking news stories that you haven't validated to be true. Be very skeptical. Don't believe any news story that is e-mailed to you. Most of them are hoaxes.

    Protect your computer with software:

  • First, uninstall Norton, McAfee, and any other anti-virus software that may be on your computer.
  • Then install the free version (not the pay version) of AVG anti-virus software. Do a Custom install and uncheck any/all extra options except AVG Free for Windows.
  • Install SpyBot S&D, Update it, Check for problems, and Fix them. I no longer recommend installing or enabling TeaTimer or SDHelper, as they can dramatically slow your OS and web browser.
  • Ad-Aware is also a good anti-ad/spy-ware app. It's easier to use than SpyBot, but not as effective.
  • Other good tools to have include Malwarebytes Anti-Malware, Stinger, CWShredder, and the Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool.
  • If you're techie, install and run Startup Contol Panel and/or HijackThis.
  • Run Windows Update (not Microsoft Update), or turn on Automatic Updates.
  • Uninstall any third-party firewalls and enable the Windows Firewall (or ICF in older installs).
  • Enable the Pop-up Blocker on your web browser. (In MS IE6 it is found here.)
  • Disable any IE add-ons with an unknown name or publisher. (Internet Options, Programs, Manage Add-ons)
  • Turn on any e-mail spam-blocking features that your ISP provides.