My clients range from  the corporate CEO to the 16-year-old home user.  At one time or another, they all have the same concern:  how do I get rid of spyware and adware from my computer?   I show them how and explain that preventing these damaging pests is easier than removing them. Taking a few proactive steps can save many hours of headache.

What is spyware and adware?

Spyware is software that sends your personal information to a third party without your permission or knowledge, including information about web sites you visit or even your user names and passwords. Often, this information is used to send you unsolicited targeted advertisements.

Adware is software that displays advertisements on your computer that randomly pop up on your screen, even when you’re not online.  Some companies provide “free” software in exchange for advertising on your display.  Companies generate profit this way.

Checking your computer

Many people may not notice spyware or adware but do notice a gradual slowdown in the performance of their computer.  Also, programs like Internet Explorer might not work properly anymore or your computer might hang more frequently.  Checking your computer and removing unwanted installations is straightforward but can be tricky if the infection is bad enough.  Specially-designed software can help detect and remove spyware and adware. I often recommend Adaware SE Personal from Lavasoft (www.lavasoftusa.com/software/adaware), which is free for individual users.  Update the software regularly as you do antivirus software to make sure the scanning engine is up to date.  If the spyware keeps coming back, the computer’s Registry could have entries that re-install the software at each reboot;  pesky stuff!  I recommend consulting a professional if cleaning the Registry is necessary, as changes made to the Registry can cripple the functionality of the computer and personal data can be lost.  Removing spyware successfully is difficult enough to make preventing it a priority. 

Protecting and preventing infections

Adware and spyware usually install on your computer covertly by using one of two methods:

1) Tricking you into clicking a link that installs it.  For example, a web site that’s trying to install spyware onto your computer might open a window that looks like a Windows dialog box, and then trick you by installing when you click a cancel button to close the dialog box.

2) Installing free software that includes it.  For example, you might install a free file-sharing program that installs spyware on your computer without notifying you.  Other culprits are the gambling sites that ask to install software on your computer in order to work with their site.  Make sure the programs you install don’t contain adware.  Many free programs do;  that’s how the publishers make their money.  Read the license agreement (theseare usually shown directly or through links as part of the installation process) and check the publisher’s website carefully.  If an unexpected installation window appears, stop the installation by closing the window.  Even if you have to shut down the computer by holding the power button down, do not let the installation finish!  A more advanced approach is to search Google Groups for the name of the program  and the keywords adware or spyware.  If you don’t find any postings about it, then you’re probably OK.  You can also install a blocker to prevent adware and spyware pop-up windows.  Most spyware installs after you click a deceptive link in a pop-up browser window.  Install a blocker, and you won’t even be tempted to click those links.  I recommend using a free pop-up blocker from Google (www.google.com/toolbar), which even keeps track of the number of pop-ups it has blocked. As long as there are computers, advertisers will tryto make money by tracking what you do and targeting advertising to you through the internet.  Now that you have a better understanding of spyware and adware and, most importantly, how to prevent its installation, you can check your computer for it, and  you are on your way to a more trouble-free computer experience. 

Still having trouble after following Tony’s steps (or don’t even want to TRY it yourself)?   Call Home Services and we’ll help you get in touch with my SbSa!

503-626-0393  1-877-849-8898  WWW.PRU-NW.COM  HOMESERVICES@PRU-NW.COM

An annual check-up can prevent minor problems from becoming major headaches

Properly installed asphalt and cedar roofing willprovide years of protection. The homeownercan ensure maximum roof performance byinspecting annually to evaluate its condition anddetect potential problems before major damage occurs.The best time for an inspection isin the spring after the severe weatherconditions have abated. Many of theseobservations can be made from theground with binoculars or from a ladder.Getting on your roof can be dangerous and can damage some types of roofs, so be sure to contact a professional to determine what owner maintenance can be done safely based on your roof’s construction, materials, and pitch.

What to look for

■ Check inside the attic and inspect the roof sheathing for evidence of leaking such as water stains. Walk around the house and inspect the overhangs. Check your roof for visible signs of wear. Over time, composition(fiberglass) roofs begin to lose their granules and become brittle. Cedar shakes become vulnerable when the shake liner felt breaks down from being exposed tothe sun and weather.

■ Remove overhanging tree branches and leaves from the roof. Trimmed trees prevent branches from scuffing roof surface. A clean roof prevents debris dams that can force water to back up and cause leaks, and reduces the risk of fire. Keep climbing roses, vines, andivy trimmed away from the roof.

■ Clean gutters and downspouts. Clogged gutters fill with water and the extra weight causes them to pull away from the house, allowing water to flow betweenthe gutters and the house.

■ Inspect metal flashing at the edges of the roof and around penetrations like chimneys, plumbing pipes,and roof vents to ensure it is sealed and secured.

■ Look for exposed nails or staples that have worked their way through asphalt shingles.

■ Remove as much moss from the roof as is practical. Unobstructed water flow on low-slope roofs is especially critical because water drains slowly, creating a greater possibility of water back-up and damage to roof sheathing. Moss growing in the spaces between shingles can cause water to flow sideways under shingle courses and a slow saturating type leak can develop.

■ Treat area of roof that develops moss with a moss inhibitor.

■ Replace or repair any damaged or missing shingles or shakes.

■ Check your roof to make sure you have enough roof vents. Good ventilation is essential in the space behind the roof deck to prevent moisture-laden air from being trapped. If inadequate ventilation is provided, roof sheathing may buckle and shingles will blister. Mold and mildew may develop in the attic. A good rule of thumb is 1 1/2 vents per 100 square feet of roof surface. Proper soffit vents and roof vents provide good cross flow ventilation. For more information and pictures of roofing problems, visit our website at www.realestateroofing.com.

Just as soon stay off that ladder? Give us a call at Home Services and we’ll get you in touch with RealEstate Roofing Services.

503-626-0393  1-877-849-8898  WWW.PRU-NW.COM  HOMESERVICES@ PRU-NW.COM