There are a number of ways to reduce your risk of becoming infected with badware. It is important to note that none of these precautions are foolproof, and that you can achieve the better protection by taking multiple precautions.

There are several important things you can do to help reduce your risk of infection:

• Keep your operating system, browser, and anti-virus software up to date
• Only download software from websites you trust
• Be cautious when clicking on pop-up advertisements
• Be skeptical of offers that seem too good to be true
• Be wary of clicking links from unknown senders in email and instant messages
• Whenever downloading or installing software, read the license agreement and policies carefully

In addition to these measures, you may also want to download and run an anti-spyware program for protection against certain forms of badware that may not be detected by anti-virus software. The links below refer to reviews of anti-spyware applications. As with your anti-virus program, be sure to keep your anti-spyware software up to date.

Please note that we do not endorse these companies or sites and cannot comment on their effectiveness.

AV Comparatives: Independent Comparatives of Anti-Virus Software

Spyware Center at Download.com

The Spyware Warrior Guide to Anti-Spyware Programs

SpywareInfo Software Recommendations

If you are concerned that you may have downloaded badware, please read about how to get rid of it.