Why does my computer have spy ware when......?

Question

I never really do anything harmful. I.E p**n sites, gaming sites. I only check my email, check the news, and so a bit of downloading.

Answer 1

You need to tighten up your security, get a copy of spysweeper and run it all the time, it will keep you clean automatically. If you need a good removal program take a look at superantispyware, it's free and does a great job. Also check out spybot search and destroy and hijackthis.

Answer 2

You need better security.

Go to http://www.cyber-defenders.com

You can try it for free, it is the best thing available to protect your computer.  Good Luck!

Answer 3

Same as houses can still get burgled when you have door locks, windows locks, and may be alarm system installed.

Answer 4

Most likely its because your computer is not updated/patched properly.

ANYTHING You run on your computer has potential of vulnerabilities.  Your job is to make sure you have the latest version / proper patch level so that hackers cannot use this as an avenue to attack your computer!

If you want to be completely secure then:

1) DONT EVER connect to the Internet

2) Disable USB and CD and all external connections

3) Provide the box physical security

Its a balance between speed, security, cost.

If you want faster and more secure, its going to cost you (by more memory or faster CPU).

If you increase security, but not the cost, you will not be as fast.

And there will never be ONE best because they are in competition with each other! Sometimes Norton will win. Sometimes McAfree will win. Sometimes TrendMicro will win.

The majority of the time, the pay for sites will find viruses first, and then the free ones will follow behind.

Most important aspect is to KEEP Your OS and all of your software programs patched/updated!

That will protect you the most as you CANNOT get the virus if the vulnerability is patched!

If I was going to pay money (much better), I would go with Norton, McAfee, or Trend Micros, Kapersky.

If I was going to go free, I would REALLY ensure my computer stays patched, and all my software is updated and use AVG.