Identity theft was once again the fastest growing crime in America. There are tons of ways for a criminal to steal your identity, but one of the fastest growing means is through your computer.
People do so much through their computers these days (online banking, checking credit scores, etc.) that thieves are keying in on home computers. They do this through spyware, malware, and various other nasty means to get a program on your computer that will send them information. Here is my short list of FREE (my favorite word) programs that can help keep your computer clean.
Ad-Aware - This program removes spyware and malware and is top rated by CNET
AVG - this is a virus protection software and is free. It also does not tend to take over your computer like Norton
Firefox - Firefox is a web browser (just like internet explorer) that is being used by all the techno geeks because it is more secure than internet explorer
Hautesecure.com - I mentioned this one before. It will block suspect sites from loading on your computer.
Spybot Search and Destroy - very similar to Ad-Aware
Avast - kind of an all in one deal. I have not found it as effective as individual programs but for the simple to use interface and its ability to catch viruses, spyware, and malware it is a gem. Plus it got a top CNET rating.
Looking for other ways that you can protect yourself? Look at this list of suggestoins from Walter S. Mossberg in the Wall Street Journal
I truly look forward to your mail each day. Thanks for taking the time to give so much information.