Popups and Spyware Protection Need Better Tools Than Google and MSN Toolbars !
This article exposes the downside of relying on free software to block popup ads in the wider context of adware and spyware protection.
Adware is a popular term to describe any software which can play, display or download advertisements on computers. Some adware are also known as spyware because they invade the users’ privacy by obtaining then sharing some of their personal information without their knowledge.
Adware popups have become a common irritation for most users and many are now looking for free ways to disable them. Google and MSN toolbars offer free popup blockers functionality and many users rely on them for protection. Most users do not realise the link between popups and spyware, very few take the right steps to protect themselves and the majority of users concentrate on just blocking popup ads. Yet experience shows that both the removal of adware and spyware, as well their prevention are necessary steps to protect users privacy, preserve the integrity of their systems and enable a pleasant on line experience. This contrasts with just blocking popups, which simply creates a false sense of security. This is due to the fact that in reality, the most serious problem with popup ads is not that they are a permanent irritation, but rather that they are the symptom of spyware infection. This issue is clearly evidenced by the fact that many popups appear when computers are not even connected to the Internet.
Changing the browser settings is free and a step in the right direction
Blocking adware popups whilst browsing is easy enough. Changing the privacy settings so that popups can no longer appear on screen can be done as follows:
· Select Control Panel in your computer
· Click on the Internet Options icon