• Update the operating system and web browser software by downloading the latest patches available.

• Install a personal firewall, such as Avast, to secure the Internet connection from uninvited users.

• Only download programs from web sites that are trustworthy.

• If using Internet Explorer, set the security and privacy setting level to at least Medium to avoid unauthorized downloading. To do this, in Internet Explorer, click Tools > Internet Options > then the select the Privacy tab and move the slider to MEDIUM.

• When closing pop-up ads, click the ("X") icon at the top right hand side of the title bar instead of any button, link or the ad itself. Many times, popup windows are coded to install spyware even if the user clicks "ok", "agree", "cancel", or "no" when he or she wants to close a window. Alternately, the user can press Alt and F4 simultaneously for certain browsers, such as Internet Explorer and Mozilla Firefox, to close the browser window.

• When downloading free software or other applications, especially file sharing programs such as Kazaa, Limewire, Bearshare, and Morpheus, be sure the user clearly understands all of the software packaged with those programs. Companies often bundle free software with other software, including spyware.
• Read all security warnings, license agreements, privacy statements, and "opt-in" notices with any software that is downloaded.
  • If the user does not understand or agree with the license agreement and/or privacy statement, do not install the software or software feature.
  • If the notices are hard to understand, think twice before installing.
• Do not open unsolicited email or download anti-spyware tools advertised through spam.
• Use and update anti spyware tools that detect and delete spyware. There are companies that offer anti-spyware tools including:
  • Lavasoft
  • SpybotM
  • Webroot
  • Aluria
  • Mcafee

*Note* As a matter of precaution, also backup PC files regularly.