This article describes the disadvantages of relying on freeware to block popups, in the wider context of adware and spyware protection.

Adware are commonly defined as any type of software which plays, displays or downloads advertisements on computers. Some adware are called spyware because their functions are invasive: They consist of obtaining then sharing some personal information about the users without their consent or knowledge. 

Adware popups have become a common irritation for most users and many are now looking for free ways to disable them. The preferred solution for many users is to rely on the popup blocker function of either the Google or MSN toolbar. Unfortunately only a minority of users think about the relationship between popup ads and spyware, and even fewer think about spyware protection and prevention beyond blocking popups whilst browsing. Yet, in order to safeguard the users' privacy, protect the integrity of their systems, whilst enabling a pleasant user experience, both the removal of adware and spyware and their prevention are necessary steps. This contrasts with the false sense of security which can result from just relying on blocking popups. This is the consequence of the most serious problem with popups: Popups are not just "irritating", they are symptomatic of spyware infection. This is also evidenced by popups appearing when users are not even on line.

Changing the browser settings is free and a step in the right direction

Blocking adware popups whilst browsing is easy enough. Changing the privacy settings so that popups can no longer appear on screen can be done as follows:

·      Select Control Panel in your computer 

·      Click on the Internet Options icon 

·      Click on the Privacy tab. 

·      There is a box next to "Turn on Pop Up Blocker". 

·      Tick this box and you will block adware popups. 

Once the settings have been changed, users should adjust the privacy levels on their computer. Another option is to download the MSN and Google toolbars. Browsing the Internet can be safer with either toolbars. For more information, click on free popup blockers.

But, what about achieving complete protection? Are most users missing the bigger picture?

Unfortunately, most users simply focus on blocking popups then forget that their computer is probably infected with adware and spyware. Popup blockers such as those offered by the Google and MSN toolbars, whilst useful are just dealing with one aspect of privacy and system integrity protection. For more information click on block spyware.

Thinking more broadly about ways to safeguard the users' privacy and protect the integrity of their system against the danger of adware and spyware attacks is both wise and necessary. In addition to running an anti-virus software that is up to date, users should remove the spyware and adware on their computer. Adware and spyware are frequently downloaded without the users' knowledge.

Typically, the removal of adware and spyware is easily achieved with the most popular adware and spyware removal tools which can also block popups. The most popular adware and spyware removal programs rely on research teams to detect and review the latest known threats. These software are frequently updated. Using adware and spyware removal programs, which can also block popups, deals with the root causes of the problem rather than just the symptoms of adware and spyware attack. This approach is therefore more effective than the reliance on free popup blockers. For more information click on adware spyware removal.

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