Adware can slow down your computer’s operation; show you ads and pop-ups while you run certain programs; block portions of sites you view on the Internet to display its own ads; and even track your surfing habits and send information about you to a third party. If you want to prevent adware from being installed on your computer—or think you may already have it installed—here are a few tips.
Download freeware cautiously. Many adware programs are bundled in “freeware,” or programs available for free download on the Internet. These programs use the adware to finance their free programs. When you download these programs, you’ll often have to click on an agreement of some kind; sometimes the company will mention the adware in the fine print, and sometimes it won’t. Bear in mind that many freeware offers are simply too good to be true—and don’t download free software from any sources you don’t trust completely.
Install a firewall. A firewall is a program that allows you to control and monitor the data that enters and leaves your computer via the Internet. If an Adware program tries to access the Internet on its own, the program will notify you. This may be the only way you know some of the subtler forms of adware are on your computer.
Don’t click “OK” without knowing what you’re clicking on. Plenty of pop-ups on the Internet will install adware on your computer if you click “OK.” Officially, the site wants to be able to say you gave permission for them to install the adware; however, they’re counting on most users not reading the message in the popup, and just clicking “OK” to make it disappear. Once you do this, the adware is installed on your computer.
Keep current with your updates. Microsoft Windows and other operating systems aren’t perfect; they all have security flaws that are regularly updated by the manufacturers. These updates patch up flaws that malicious hackers and programs can exploit to put unwanted software on your computer. Make sure you install updates regularly.
Install a pop-up blocker. Sometimes it’s safest just to avoid pop-ups altogether. If you install a program that blocks pop-ups, you’ll cut the number of opportunities your computer has to encounter adware on the web.
Download an adware-removal program—or update your existing program. Make sure you choose a trusted adware-removal program; some actually install adware on your computer while claiming to remove it. Install a legitimate program—or if you already have one installed, go to the vendor’s website and check for updates. Adware makers update their programs often to get around adware removal programs, so you’ll need to have the most current updates to ensure your removal process is effective.
If you have adware on your computer, disconnect it from the Internet. While your computer is connected to the Internet, the adware program has the opportunity to send information about you to a third party. Make sure your Internet connection has been closed before you start a scan.
Scan, restart, and scan again. Once you’ve disconnected your computer from the Internet, close all programs you’ve currently got running and start a scan. Some adware programs may activate and try to hide themselves when an adware removal program is activated; to prevent this, scan and restart at least three times. Each time, let your adware removal program delete any adware it finds. If you do this more than three times and still find adware on your computer, try rebooting in Safe Mode and running another scan.
Contact a professional. If your adware removal program is not effectively removing the malicious software, the problem may be too complex for you to handle alone. If so, contact a computer technician or repair service. Computer repair professionals are usually well equipped to handle problems with adware, spyware, and other malicious software.
Adware can be a nuisance—but it can also be avoided. Don’t download freeware from unknown sites; install a pop-up blocker and firewall; and keep your Internet browser updated and secure, and you’ll be able to prevent most adware problems before they start. Follow these tips, and you’ll be more likely to keep
Dealing With Adware:Nine Tips For Prevention and Cure