Technology Information

This article describes the disadvantages of relying on freeware to block popups, 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 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. 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 think beyond blocking popups, very few know about the relationship between popups and spyware. Only a minority of users take the right steps to protect themselves. Yet, in order to safeguard the users’ privacy, protect the integrity of their systems, whilst enabling a pleasant user experience, both the removal of adware and spyware and their prevention are necessary steps. This contrasts with just blocking popups, which simply creates a false sense of security. This is because the most serious problem with popups is not just that they are “irritating”, but rather that they are often the symptom of spyware infection, as is demonstrated by popups appearing when users 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 

·      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 install the Google or MSN toolbar. Both toolbars will improve security when users browse the Internet. For more information, click on free popup blockers.

But, how about achieving complete protection? Are most users missing the bigger picture?

Many users simply forget to remove the adware and spyware from their computer and just focus on blocking adware and spyware. Popup blocker software, like those which user can access with the Google and MSN toolbars, are undoubtedly useful, however they only deal with one aspect of protection against privacy invasion, and threats to computer integrity. For more information click on block spyware.

Thinking more broadly about ways to safeguard the users’ privacy and protect the integrity of their system against the danger of adware and spyware attacks is both wise and necessary. In addition, users should run the latest version of their anti-virus software, then remove the adware and spyware on their computer, using appropriate tools. Adware and spyware are often downloaded without the users being aware of them.

The removal of adware and spyware can be achieved easily using popular anti adware and spyware programs, which usually also offer the functionality to block popups. The most popular adware and spyware removal programs rely on research teams to detect and review the latest known threats. These software are frequently updated. Adware and spyware removal programs can also block popups, and this deals with the root causes of adware and spyware infections. This method is clearly more effective than relying on free popup blocker software. For more information click on adware spyware removal.