Being a computer programmer, I get asked a lot how to protect yourself online. Well, firstly I'd say stop clicking on ads or anything that looks unsafe. Basically, if you didn't specifically want to go someplace, don't let a website steer you. With that out of the way, you probably want to invest in a good solid anti-spyware/anti-malware program. There are plenty to choose from, and if you go to any electronics store that sells software you'll be fine with what you find there. Particularly you want "active" protection that scans your computer as you use it, as well as the regular "scans" when you tell the software to check out your system and fix anything fishy. McAfee is wonderful, while Norton is loaded on everything these days. Both work great.
If you're wanting something free, check out Spybot for active protection (though it also scans) and MalwareBytes for powerful scanning. The combination of these two works great to keep you safe online, and you can upgrade to the purchased version for nice bonuses as well. So, even on a limited budget you can still keep yourself safe. And, if you don't like it, you've wasted nothing.
As general rules, keep in mind that this isn't the Wild West. With an active scanner in place there is little to fear. Sure, there are times, but when you have your computer scanned regularly, while also being monitored as you use it, then you are pretty safe. Yes, be careful (haxxer sites with free movies/music/etc are like going into a lion's den with a steak around your neck) and stay away from shady stuff. Just like the rest of life, if it stinks it's probably dead.
- M
For a bit of the funnier side (and a lot of hyperbole), check out this video:
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