Archive for the ‘Adware’ Category

Add-Art - Creative Ad Blocking

Monday, February 9th, 2009

Any of you that like art and use ad blocking might be interested in Add-Art. It is a plug-in for Firefox that replaces the removed the advertisments with Art. A clever idea really. So, instead of seeing annoying ads for things you are not going buy you get pictures of art.

Okay, I would not personally use this as it kind of defeats one of the purposes of blocking ads, speeding up browsing, by downloading extra images, which would otherwise would not be downloaded. However, if you have a fast connection I doubt it would be noticeable, so if you are interested check it out HERE.

Top Internet threats to be aware of

Thursday, July 24th, 2008

Keeping a computer running at its peak is a tricky business, especially when there are hackers and phishers and creators of Adware lurking behind the scenes waiting for their chance to cause damage to your machines inner workings or even worse, steal your private information.

It is vitally important to be as knowledgeable as possible on the various threats that exist on the Internet and take the relevant precautions for those dangers. The Internet is a wonderful tool, and many hours of enjoyment can be had from this remarkable invention of the twentieth century but it is always safest to be prepared.

Here is a basic rundown of what to be aware of:

Spyware

Spyware is number one threat on the Internet. Basically Spyware is computer software designed to spy on your computer browsing habits without your knowledge. Also known as Privacy-invasive software, Spyware collects your private information and sends it off to a third party.

How to combat this threat: Anti-spyware software like XoftSpySE

Adware

Adware is similar to its cousin, Spyware, as it can also be classified as Privacy-invasive software. Adware is essentially advertisements or pop-ups that automatically download on to your computer without your knowledge after you have downloaded software.

How to combat this threat: Anti-spyware software like XoftSpySE

Viruses

Computer viruses are designed by hackers to cause as much damage as they can. You get various types of viruses according to their function. Trojan Horse viruses are usually bundled with another program or disguised as something else. Once you download them on to your computer they can act as a portal for hackers to take over your computer and steal information.

How to combat this threat: Anti-virus software

Phishing

Phishing is an incredibly dangerous criminal activity that targets e-mail accounts. Mass e-mails are sent out pretending to be from legitimate financial institutions asking account holders to verify their login details by following a link. Once users do this, the creator behind the false website can use the login details to access credit card details, bank accounts and steal identities.

How to combat this threat: Anti-spam software like Spam Controls and awareness.

In todays society where the majority of business is conducted online it is essential that computer users practice safe surfing. Do not let the black sheep of Internet society spoil your wonderful web 2.0 experience.

Changing your Internet browser could save you a lot of time and effort when it comes to battling Adware.

Tuesday, June 10th, 2008

Any Internet user knows the hazards of browsing web pages littered with advertising boxes that try to lure you to click them with flashy images and misleading slogans like ‘You are a winner’ and ‘You have two messages waiting for you’. If you fall into the trap and click on one of the ads then what is more than likely to happen is a pop-up box will appear on your screen and if you are unlucky, Adware will download on to your computer.

The best way to protect your computer from Adware is by having anti-spyware software like XoftSpySE installed on your PC. Anti-spyware software will detect and remove harmful applications that seek to install on your computer with the aim of monitoring your browsing habits. This is your best defense against Adware, Spyware and Malware.

Another precautionary measure you can take is simply switching your browser. This simple action can dramatically reduce the risk of Adware infection on your computer.

Mozilla Firefox has a list of add-on applications designed to improve your web browsing experience. One of these add-ons is called Ad-block Plus. By simply installing the Ad-Block Plus Add-On to your Firefox browser you can block all those irritating advertisements that appear on the web pages you visit. Once you have tagged an ad to be blocked, it remains blocked to till you have selected otherwise.

Now you can enjoy the freedom of ad-free browsing without the worry of accidentally clicking on something that might darken your doorstep with Adware.

You can never be too protected from Malware.

The Best Things In Life Are Not Always Free

Friday, April 18th, 2008

If your computer has begun to act strangely and you are concerned that your computer may have picked up a virus, some Spyware, or you think that the Windows Registry might just need a jolly good clean out, it’s time to take some action and do something about it.

There are excellent software tools available to download for absolutely FREE from the Internet that will do the job with no questions asked. Whether it is a registry cleaner, anti-virus software or even an anti-spyware remover; you can get it from the Internet without paying a dime.

These tools will sort out your virus and registry problems in no time but they might leave you with something else as well.

Many software developers make deals with makers of Aware and other advertisers, who integrate their products with the manufacturer’s software. This is the way many developers are able to offer their products for free.

You as a consumer are usually unaware of this unless you really read the end-user agreement in its entirety. If you don’t pay careful attention to the boxes you are checking during the installation process you may very well be installing Adware and other unwanted applications like advertising toolbars onto your browser.

Not all free software downloads are infected with Adware. Many reputable companies offer excellent products that are 100% safe to download. RegCure is a registry cleaner that is proven to be safe to download. XoftspySE is the recommended anti-Spyware software of choice that doesn’t come with any unexpected surprises.