One of the best Free programs for this is AntiVirus Personal Edition Anti-Virus software. Install on your PC and leave it running to block any incoming bugs or viruses! It can also be used to scan your system for any previous invasions, but be patient, this takes about 15 minutes to complete. Worth running periodically, to check all is ok.
FireWalls and Broadband.
If you are on Broadband, consider using Firewall software. Most good ISP's now supply free. (eg AOL).
Tip – DON'T leave your PC connected to the Internet when you are not using it! Reduce the chance of something loading while you are not monitoring things !
SpyBot finders and Ad blockers.
Various programs available on the web, both ‘Paid' and ‘Free'. You can get good results from using 2 Free packages that are available. These are ‘SpyBot Search & Destroy' and ‘Ad-Aware'. Downloads available at
Suspect you have a virus ?
If you think you already have a virus, a good Free tool for checking and killing them is McAfee Stinger.
Some General Tips
Beware ‘Boys Toys' and ‘Freebies'! Think, if someone wants to spread a bug, get tracking software onto your PC etc, the best place for them to do it is places where you go to get ‘freebies' to download! The above sites are normally ‘ad free', but be aware that if you download porn, free music, free games, free software, there is often a ‘price' to pay. Always use the above programs after visiting ANY of these sorts of sites!
