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Anti-Virus Software and Anti-Spyware Software

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Anti-virus Software
Anti-virus software protects your computer from viruses by scanning your computer and your incoming email for viruses, and then deleting them. Viruses can destroy your data, slow your computer's performance, cause a crash, or allow spammers to send email through your account.

To be effective, your anti-virus software should update routinely with antidotes to the latest "bugs" circulating through the Internet. Most commercial anti-virus software includes a feature to download updates automatically when you are on the Internet.

Anti-Virus Software - What to Look for and Where to Get It
You can download anti-virus software from the websites of software companies or buy it in retail stores. Many Internet Service Providers (ISPs) actually offer anti-virus software for free. Look for anti-virus software that:

  • Recognizes current viruses, as well as older ones
  • Effectively reverses the damage
  • Updates automatically.

Here's a sample list of anti-virus software that you can purchase online.
http://security.getnetwise.org/tools/results/any2.php

This list was provided by the GetNetWise website. We cannot guarantee the effectiveness of any of the products listed on the GetNetWise website, nor do we endorse any products. The National Cyber Security Alliance is also unable to provide any technical assistance with any of these tools.

Anti-Spyware Software
Anti-spyware (link to glossary on spyware) software helps protect your computer from malicious spyware that monitors your online activities and collects personal information while you surf the web. It works by periodically scanning your computer for spyware programs, and then giving you the opportunity to remove any harmful surveillance software found on your computer. Some anti-virus software contains anti-spyware capability. Given the increasing sophistication of spyware programs, consider using two different anti-spyware programs.  Each one looks for slightly different sets of threats, and together they may offer increased protection.