1) Don't use an "administrator" account with full privileges when using your computer. Set up an administrator account and a general user account with limited access. Use the general user account.
This prevents almost all automatic downloads and installations. If something wants to be installed, a box pops up requiring the administrator's password.
2) Don't install things from random popups, even if they appear to be legitimate software names. Always go to the webpage for the software to install.
3) Java (different from javascript) is used by very few programs. If you don't need it, don't install it. It is very problematic and I won't have it on my Windows computers ever again. Apple stopped putting it in their list of pre-loaded programs. I need it for one program, so I do have it on my Macbook where it is safer than PC.
4) Always install legitimate updates immediately.
__________________ Kristin, Max and Teddy
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