Protect Yourself From Spyware
One of the biggest threats to you and your identity is spyware that can easily be added onto your computer without your knowledge. A key logger is a type of spyware that can be added to your computer and without knowing what to look for, you could never know it was there. A key logger records your keystrokes, all numbers, letters and symbols, and transmits them or saves them for the hacker.
If you make an online purchase from a website, your account information and your credit card number could be recorded by a key logger. Even though you are at a reputable website, you could still be having your identity stolen. Youve provided the hacker with everything they need to rack charges up on your credit card and you are left unsuspecting. Your computer could be infected with spyware and/or a key logger right now and you probably dont even know it.
Some spyware is pretty harmless but some of it leaves you and your information completely exposed and ripe for the picking. Some programs can collect all of your activity on the Internet, including messaging conversations, strokes on your keyboard, travel plans, information about you and your family, even photos and files.
To stop yourself from being a victim of identity theft due to spyware and key logger programs, there are a few things you can do.
First of all, ensure that you have ant-spyware installed on your computer and that you keep it updated regularly. Anti-spyware software can detect spyware on your computer and delete it. You should run an anti-spyware on your computer at least every other day, if not once a day. Its not fool proof because hackers and spammers are always updating their programs to avoid detection keeping your anti-spyware up to date, and even having more than one can be very beneficial and help keep you bug free.
Install an anti-virus on your computer as well as anti-spyware, and keep your anti-virus updated and on constantly. You should run an anti-virus on your computer at least every other day, if not once a day.
Practice safe sites be wary when you are on the Internet and only download programs from web sites that you trust. Never allow anything to be installed on your computer via the Internet without first finding out what exactly it is. Keep your working programs, such as your Internet Browser up to date with the newest versions as well.
There are many ways to have your identity stolen online and spyware and key loggers are just a drop in the bucket. You have to be vigilant with your information that you provide on the Internet, even on trusted websites. Taking care of your computer and the software that is installed on it will help to increase your protection, but nothing is for certain. You must keep an accurate track of your finances and notice immediately if anything looks suspicious. Keep a watchful eye on your credit card and bank statements and if anything seems out of place, report it immediately. You should also check your credit report at least once a year from each of the credit bureaus to ensure that all the information recorded on there is correct. Identity theft is serious and it can completely financially destroy you, so be aware, vigilant and wary.
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Faithe Thomas is concerned about identity theft and online fraud. She designed a website to help victims and pre-victims: http://www.identity-fraud.info
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