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 common term meaning any type of software designed to play, display or download adverts on computers. Some adware are called spyware because their functions are invasive: They consist of obtaining then sharing some personal information about the users without their consent or knowledge. 

Adware popups have become a common irritation for most users and many are now looking for free ways to disable them. The preferred solution for many users is to rely on the popup blocker function of either the Google or MSN toolbar. 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, in order to protect the users’ privacy, preserve the integrity of their computers, and make any computing experience a pleasant one, both removal and prevention are important. This contrasts with just blocking popups, which simply creates a false sense of security. This is the consequence of the real major problem with popups, which is not so much that they are an irritation, but rather the manifestation of spyware attacks. This issue is clearly evidenced by the many popups which can appear, even when computers are disconnected from 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 

·      Click on the Privacy tab. 

·      There is a box next to “Turn on Pop Up Blocker”. 

·      Tick this box and you will block adware popups. 

Once the settings have been changed, users should adjust the privacy levels on their computer. Another option is to use the MSN or Google toolbar. Browsing the Internet can be safer with either toolbars. For more information, click on free popup blockers.

But, how about true protection? Are most users seeing the bigger picture?

Many users simply forget to remove the adware and spyware from their computer and just focus on blocking adware and spyware. The popup blockers offered by Google and MSN are clearly useful, yet only deal with one aspect of privacy and system integrity protection. For more information click on block spyware.

It is highly recommended at this point to think more broadly on how to protect the users privacy, and computer integrity from spyware and other adware. Users should, in addtion, run the latest version of their anti-virus software, then eliminate adware and spyware using appropriate tools. Often adware and spyware are downloaded without the users’ knowledge.

Getting rid of adware and spyware is easily achieved with the most popular adware and spyware removal programs, which can also block popup ads. The most popular adware and spyware removal tools benefit from frequent updates, which rely on research teams who review the latest adware and spyware threats. Adware and spyware removal programs can also block popups, and this deals with the root causes of adware and spyware infections. This method is therefore far superior than just relying on free popup blocker programs. For more information click on adware spyware removal.

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| This entry was posted on Monday, June 8th, 2009 at 2:01 pm and is filed under Ad Blocking, Ad Ware, Adware and Spyware, Anti Spyware, Anti Virus, PC Security, Phishing, Remove Spyware And Viruses, Social Engineering. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.