You may be having spyware if you start to receive pop-ups even if you’re not using the Internet. You’ll also notice that your PC has been slower than a turtle. Even if you have a very good anti-virus program, if your kids are frequenting your PC, there is a big possibility that spyware will enter your system.

Spyware is a software that enter into your PC while surfing on unsafe websites or downloading programs from anonymous sources. Kids are often the targets on this; however, most of the spyware kids download are not at all malicious, and that’s good news. The downside is this: pop-up windows, that can actually slow down your computer’s speed, adjust your homepage, or even redirect you to some unknown websites when you’re doing some searches.

Basically, children’s software downloads containing spyware are very easy to detect. It is a fact that kids like to download free games, music, movies and other software from the Internet or file sharing programs. Truth to tell, these files can be infected with viruses. Animated desktop images are good sources of spyware because kids just love them. SpongeBob, Barbie, and Spider man are very popular among them. Hence, putting them as screen saver is very appealing not only for the kids but for the parents as well. Another well-liked download for children are the toolbars for the browser, which they keep on adding to the computer. Without them knowing it, these actually infect the PC.

Though not every toolbar, game, or screensaver has spyware, it still is really important to teach kids about spyware and their effects.

How will parents do it?

1. Instruct your kids to download their favorite stuff from reliable sites.

2. Tell them to inquire first and seek assistance from parents before downloading something as to their capability to read and understand license agreements, warning, and privacy statements given.

3. If your kid is seeking a program that both of you are unsure of, search for it in your browser to learn about it.

4. Install some parental controls that will prevent them from downloading anything from the Net. Discuss with them the rudiments of the Net.

5. Add sites where your kids will be allowed to download their favorites.

6. Make rules for your children to follow regarding computer usage the moment they learn to use the Net. This will really help you in keeping not only your computer safe but your children as well.