All Computers can be infected by Spyware/Malware and Viruses. These can be as simple as changing your homepage to stealing your banking information or even disabling your computer completely. Here are the basic steps to keep these types of software off your computer.
Anti-Virus Software is the most important to have installed on any Computer. If you already have a AV program, be sure to keep it updated and run the application on a weekly schedule. IF you do not, or your subscription has run out here a few free programs that work as well as any retail programs.
Free Anti-Virus Software
Spyware and Malware are the leading infections on Computers today. Most come from rogue websites but a great number come from installing applications and not reading the fine print. When you click 'yes' on the User Licence Agreements that all software comes with, some times you are saying yes to installing different types of spyware. Ever notice that new toolbar in you Internet Browser? ISearch or CoolWebSearch?, yep you clicked Yes!
Spyware/Malware Software
