Detecting Spyware and Malware
Spyware and Malware are relatively common occurrences on computers with Internet access and gone unchecked can severely degrade a PC's performance and possibly violate personal privacy. Many sites install background programs, files, cookies and registry entries without the user's permission which can gather data on the user's internet habits and, although rare, transmit user passwords and other personal data.
Detecting and removing spyware and malware from your system is similar to using an anti-virus program. The law school currently uses MalwareBytes for this task which is free for the basic version. We recommend that you install this or a similar anti-spyware program on your laptop or home PC and run it often, keeping it up to date with the latest definitions (which are also free). We also suggest you follow the tips listed below to avoid contamination...
Tips for Avoiding Spyware and Other Deceptive Software
Step 1: Choose an appropriate Web browser security setting
By adjusting the Web browser's security settings, the user can determine how much -- or how little -- information to accept from a Web site. Microsoft recommends the medium level or better. Those who opt to use a lower setting should only do so temporarily and reset the level to a higher setting as soon as possible.
Step 2: Don't accept downloads from strangers !
Users should only download software from Web sites they trust; carefully read disclosures for references to any unwanted features before downloading the software; and be wary of “free” peer-to-peer media tools, which may include deceptive software as part of the download.
Step 3: Stay on Alert ! Look for signs of deceptive software on your computer...
Users should be suspicious if their Web browser opens on an unfamiliar page, they receive a spike in unsolicited e-mail, or notice their computer running sluggishly or crashing. This could mean a malicious program has hijacked their PC, and steps should be taken to discover and remove it immediately.
Step 4: Detect and remove unwanted software !
Load MalwareBytes or similar anti-spyware program and run it often. Please see our LawHelpdesk for assistance if needed...
Step 5: Keep Windows up to date !
Users should make sure that their Windows OS is current by visiting the Microsoft Windows Update site (see Related Links, right), and by enabling Automatic Updates.
Step 6. Backup Your Important Files !
All users should backup their important files to either an external hard drive, disk or cloud repository. If Spyware or Malware attack or system failure occurs you will still be able to reach your data, and reload it to your system after corrective measures have been performed.