Windows 8 In Depth

Avoiding Viruses and Spyware: The Basics

Let’s begin with a look at protecting your PC from direct attacks: that is, when an unauthorized cracker (which we define as a hacker who has succumbed to the Dark Side of the Force) sits down at your keyboard and tries to gain access to your system. Sure, it may be unlikely that a malicious user would gain physical access to the computer in your home or office, but it’s not impossible.

Crackers specialize in breaking into systems (“cracking” system security, hence the name), and at any given time, hundreds (perhaps even thousands) of crackers roam cyberspace looking for potential targets. If you’re online right now, the restless and far-seeing eyes of the crackers are bound to find you eventually.