5 Free Computer Security Tools Your Office Must Have

Computers and the Internet have made our lives easier, particularly at the office, but constantly-changing technology means problems can happen. Spyware, viruses, malware, and hackers, many of which want to access your personal or company information, can all wreak havoc at your office. Fortunately, software that can help protect your privacy and security does exist. Read on to learn more about 5 free computer security tools your office must have.

1. Free Antivirus Software
Viruses, Trojans, worms, and other malware can cause huge problems on office computers. Plenty of free software that detects and blocks these dangers, as well as free tools that can help remove malware after your computer has already been infected, is available. For example:

• McAfee Stinger Virus Removal detects and removes specific viruses. It should be used along with a full anti-virus protection program.

• ScripTrap traps scripts when they try to run on your computer.

• Symantec Security Response offers tools to automatically search for and remove viruses.

2. Free Email Spam Blocking
Unsolicited email can drive you crazy, clog up your in box, and accidentally cause you to download files that you shouldn’t! Consider free spam blocking programs such as K9, Mailwasher Free, or Spamihilator to help block—or at least control—your spam.

3. Free Encryption Tools
Secure information sometimes winds up in the wrong hands. Encryption software and tools help encrypt your important files and private email messages. This helps ensure that only the proper recipients can view it with a key that will decrypt the information. Consider the following free encryption software:

• PGP Freefare offers versions for both Windows and Mac computers

• Kryptelite is perfect when security needs are not very high

4. Free Pop-Up Blocking
Have you ever visited a website only to be bombarded with annoying pop-up ads? Free software and utilities that can block pop-up advertising definitely come in handy at the office. Google Toolbar, Yahoo Toolbar, and Pop-Up Stopper Free by Panicware are all easy-to-use yet powerful at blocking pop-ups.

5. Free Spyware / Adware Removal
The computers in your office could be contaminated with spyware and adware that can slow down computer performance and possibly even steal your passwords. Free spyware and adware detection and removal tools can help locate, identify, and remove pesky hijackers like bugs, tracking cookies, and malicious spy programs from your office computer. A few to consider include:

• SpywareBlaster, which proactively protects computers to block spyware and adware from installing in the first place

• SpyBot-S&D, which can detect and remove multiple types of spyware from computers

Chances are high that you would never leave your purse or wallet lying on a restaurant table while you stepped away for a moment, nor would you leave the front door to your home unlocked when you went to work. Why would you ever let your computer be vulnerable to similarly dangerous problems?  Utilizing free computer security tools at your office can help protect both confidential personal and proprietary company information—and save you a lot of potential headaches.

Guest Post by David Ching who is a marketing strategist for EQA Office Furniture, a retailer of office cubicles, conference tables, workstations, desks, office chairs and more. Get a free office cubicle or other office furniture quote.

Source : techtalkafrica[dot]com