I’m sure that you have some sort of anti-virus software installed. But sadly it’s not enough to fully protect your system. Why? Because most basic anti-viruses do nothing when it comes to spyware and adware. They are just not made that way. That’s why your computer might get infected even if your anti-virus software is enabled and updated regularly.

Usually spyware and adware are not as harmful as viruses, but amongst other things they can seriously affect your computer performance. So, if your PC becomes unusually slow all of a sudden, or starts acting up – for example, shows you pop-up windows even when you’re not connected to the Internet, there is a fair chance that it’s infected.

Most of the times removing spyware and adware is not such a big deal – you just need the right software. But of course it’s best to not get infected in the first place. Below are three simple tips that will help you stay away from spyware and adware.

Always Read the EULA

The reason why spyware and adware get onto your PC so easily is that quite often you actually agree to install them. How does this happen? Well, a lot of freeware programs contain spyware or adware – that’s how their developers earn money. Funnily enough, that fact is usually mentioned in the EULA (End User License Agreement). When installing new software, most people just click I Agree without reading a single line of it. So when you agree to install that particular software, you agree to install spyware with it.

Download Only from Trusted Websites

Usually unreliable programs come from unscrupulous websites. So if you are looking for software, it’s best to download it from reputable sources, like download.com, tucows.com and other well-known sites.

Share Data And Surf the Web Carefully

Whenever your computer accesses data from another source, like a USB flash drive, external hard drive, CD/DVD, email attachment and so on, the risk of getting infected is increased. Always scan new, especially suspicious-looking, files for viruses and spyware/adware. Avoid opening and saving email attachments from people you don’t know, and even from your friends if the attachment looks weird – some malicious programs attach files to emails without the sender’s knowledge. It won’t take much time to send your friend or colleague and email asking if they sent you that file or not. Don’t visit sites that have strange-looking URLs – they might be loaded with malware that only waits to install itself to your computer.

You can’t be too careful when it comes to spyware and adware. And one of the best solutions is to watch out.