Every business network is vulnerable to the perils of spyware and adware. If you are connected to the internet, then you risk getting one of these critters downloaded onto your system. Whenever your employees visit certain Web sites, instant message or download programs, there is a chance your network could face an intrusion.

With “drive-by” downloads some spyware programs are installed onto the computer instantly. The site might have an immediate pop-up, cleverly including an “Agree” button where you might normally close the box, and bam! The programs have free reign to do their business on your computer. This might also occur through instant messaging, something employees commonly engage in on the job.

Since spyware and adware often come bundled with other programs, especially file-sharing programs, you must take careful notice of what your employees are allowed to download onto their computers. Make sure any programs of questionable authenticity are avoided. Many free, harmless programs tend to come with these threatening programs attached.

Another thing to remember is by running your system as an administrator; you put it at a greater risk for getting hit with unwanted programs. If you run it as a regular user most of the time, this can prevent “drive-by” installations that can only occur in administrator mode.

Some of the biggest mistakes you can make, leaving your business susceptible to spyware and adware include:

• Not keeping your internet browser and operating system updated with the latest security patches.
• Not using a proper hardware or software firewall.
• Not installing both anti-virus and anti-spyware programs.
• Not carefully reading all prompts when installing a program.
• Opening suspicious emails.
• Visiting pornography, gambling or other high-risk Web sites.
• Installing frivolous software, such as unnecessary toolbars, screensavers, images, etc.

Remember, no one intentionally installs spyware or adware programs (or at least they don’t intentionally install something they think is a hazard). The designers of these sly and deceitful mechanisms trick you into doing something you wouldn’t have done knowingly. As an employer, your best methods of defense are knowledge and prevention. Inform your employees of the threats these programs pose to your network, how they penetrate the system, and what they as employees can consciously do to monitor their behavior on the internet. You can always check with professionals like CopiaTECH for help with your strategy.