Install a personal firewall to stop uninvited users from accessing your computer. A firewall blocks unauthorized access to your computer and will alert you if spyware already on your computer is sending information out.
Back up your data. Whether it's text files or photos that are important to you, back up any data that you'd want to keep in case of a computer crash. Do this as regularly as you update your security software.
If you think your computer might have spyware on it, immediately stop shopping, banking, or doing any other online activity that involves user names, passwords, or other sensitive information. Confirm that your security software is active and current and run it to scan your computer for viruses and spyware, deleting anything the program identifies as a problem. Visit OnGuard Online's Malware page for more detailed tips.