Top Badware Educational Resources
If you are wondering about badware, malware, virus and phishing threats the first place to start is by educating yourself to know exactly what these threats are, their definitions and best practices to keep yourself safe.
Spyware
Spyware is software installed on your computer without your consent. Spyware is typically used to monitor or control your computer use. Telltale signs that your pc is infected with spyware may include; a barrage of pop-up windows; a web browser that takes you to sites you do not want to visit; browser toolbars or icons on your computer screen; keyboard keys that do not work; random error messages; sluggish pc performance when opening programs or saving files, and some administrator programs not functioning at all. In some cases, there may be no symptoms of a spyware infection at all.
To reduce spyware infection risks:
* Update your computer operating system and web browser software, and set your browser security high enough to detect and stop unauthorized downloads.
* Use anti-virus and anti-spyware software. Use a personal firewall, and even use one from your router or ISP. Update their software as well - routinely.
* Download free software only from sites you know and trust. Enticing free software downloads frequently bundle other software, including spyware.
* Don't click on links inside pop-ups.
* Don't click on links in spam or pop-ups that claim to offer anti-spyware software; you may unintentionally be installing spyware.
Phishing
Phishing is a scam in which Internet fraudsters send email spam messages or pop-up messages to trick users internet to offer personal and financial information. Avoid phishing by:
* Do not reply to anything asking for personal or financial information.
Do not click on links in the message.
Do not cut and paste a link from the message into your Web browser — phishers can make links look real, but they can actually send you to a different site.
* Some scammers send email that appears to be legit, asking you to call a phone number to update your account or access a "refund." If you need to reach an organization you have business with, call the number on your financial statements or on the back of your credit card.
* Use anti-virus and anti-spyware software, as well as a firewall, and update them all regularly.
* Never email personal or financial information
* Review credit card and bank account statements for any unauthorized charges.
* Be cautious opening email attachments or downloading files from emails you receive
* Forward phishing emails to
spam@uce.gov – and to the company, bank, or organization impersonated in the phishing email. You also may report phishing email to
reportphishing@antiphishing.org. The Anti-Phishing Working Group, a consortium of ISPs, security vendors, financial institutions and law enforcement agencies, uses these reports to fight phishing.
* If you've been scammed, visit the Federal Trade Commission's Identity Theft website at
ftc.gov/idtheft.
Hackers try stealing your gmail account! 
