In our experience we have come to the conclusion that nothing on the web is free.  Specifically, when you download “free” movies, music, games, software, etc. it may come with a little added bonus of “SPYWARE!”

Spyware and malware programs are developed by clever programmers, and then delivered to your computer through “stealh-like” internet installs. Usually spyware comes attached to “innocent-looking” downloads. (i.e – game demos, search toolbars, software, free subscriptions).

A big red flag and potential malware threat is subscribing to online services. Often times the phrase “vendor is allowed to install third-party software on your computer” is embeded in directly into the EULA.  As you probably already know, most users never read the EULA, skip right to the end, and click “Accept.” The key here is not to install spyware/malware out of sheer ignorance.

How to avoid threats

- Use caution when downloading anything to your comptuer
- Avoid programs that appear suspicious
- Pay for your movies, music, games and software