Simon Dvorak.com

This morning on the news a news anchor who refers to himself as the “Car Czar” (aka Doug Brauner) did a segment on tips to keep spyware from hijacking your computer. This got me thinking about my own list of tips to help out the self proclaimed “Computer Illiterate” from these pesky problems that seem to be increasing in prevalence

Without further ado…

1. Install Linux

   I’m not a Linux evangelist. I happen to use Microsoft products and actually don’t find them to be a deep source of discomfort.(UPDATE: scratch that…I have experienced extreme discomfort lately due to IE6 and its flashing neon welcome sign for spyware/malware/adware) However, it is widely accepted that Linux has much better security features and less hacking zealots doing all they can to tear apart and expose it’s flaws. Besides, with all the time you’ll be spending just getting the OS to recognize your printer or install your network card, you won’t have to worry about getting on the internet at all. Which brings me to my next tip…

2. your network cable or telephone line
   Any connection to the internet, be it a DSL, Cable or dialup account, is like a giant open door through which any variety of nasty bits of code can come hopping through. Even spyware tools by trusted names such as Yahoo can’t protect you from their nefarious payloads. Best to unplug and be safe!
3. Uninstall Your Operating System
   I know in the first tip I suggested switching to the Linux OS. Scratch that. Don’t use any OS, they’re much to dangerous.