Spyware and Viruses: What's the Difference?

 

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Spyware and viruses: What's the difference? Spyware and viruses are both malicious software, but they're different. Learn how, and how Microsoft Security Essentials can help protect you from both. Then find answers to these common questions about Microsoft Security Essentials: Do I still need Windows Defender? Do I need another antivirus program, too? Suspect you have a virus? Get help fast at our new Virus and Security Solution Center, and learn steps that you can take to help remove it. Security updates for September 14, 2010 The bulletin for September includes 9 security updates: 7 for the Windows operating system, 1 for Microsoft Office, and 1 for Microsoft Internet Information Services. Get updates from Microsoft Update See a summary of the updates Microsoft security news   Fraud alert: "Your Hotmail account will be deleted" A new scam email claiming to be from Microsoft asks for personal information to avoid suspension of your Windows Live Hotmail account. Do not reply! This email message is a scam.   Fraud alert: UPS package scam In recent newsletters, we told you about a phishing email message purporting to be from UPS. A reader recently brought another UPS-related scam to our attention.   Worried about ID theft? You're not alone A recent study by the National Cyber Security Alliance and the Anti-Phishing Working Group found Americans are as concerned about ID theft as they are of job loss.   Microsoft to lead Family Online Safety Institute A group manager from Microsoft's Trustworthy Computing group recently assumed the chair of the Family Online Safety Institute (FOSI) board of directors. Learn more about FOSI and its charter to make the Internet safer for families.   Operation b49: Microsoft takes on the bots In February, Microsoft helped take down the Waledac botnet in an effort known internally as "Operation b49." Now in phase two, Operation b49 can help you clean out your PC if you think it's been infected by a bot. Protect your computer More ways that spammers can get your email address In last month's newsletter, we told you about four ways that spammers can get your email address. Here are more great tips from our readers. Is pirated software putting you at risk? If a deal for software seems too good to be true, it probably is. See how to check for a Certificate of Authenticity label to ensure that you have genuine Microsoft software. Watch videos on online safety If you prefer to learn by watching rather than reading, take a look at our new how-to videos on computer security, privacy, and Internet safety. Protect yourself and your family Free ebook for online teens Help teens protect themselves online with a free, downloadable ebook from Microsoft that covers topics including cyberbullying, social networking, hackers, and more. 5 steps to help keep your passwords secret These five guidelines will help you protect yourself when you log on to your computer or any site where you enter personal or financial information. Donate to Pakistan flood victims safely If you want to donate to flood relief efforts in Pakistan, make sure you do so safely. Here are tips to avoid donation scams, plus links to legitimate relief organizations. Security resources Microsoft Online Safety: online safety and privacy education Microsoft Security: the latest in computer security Security Tips & Talk blog Microsoft Consumer Security Support Center About this newsletter Microsoft Security for Home Computer Users is a monthly newsletter bringing security news, guidance, updates, and community resources directly to your inbox. If you would like to receive more technical security information, see the Microsoft Security Newsletter.

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