Certain researchers are claiming that Microsoft is secretly changing and updating files on XP and Vista machines, even when the users have turned off the Automatic Update function. The updated files relate to the Windows Update feature itself.
Usually you are asked for permission to make such changes to your computer’s Windows operating system. Not this time. It must be said that there is no indication of ulterior motive or evil intent on the part of Microsoft. Still, many people, especially companies, do not like to have their computers tampered with, without their knowledge or consent.
No response yet from Microsoft about this issue. To see your update settings, click Start, Control Panel, System, Automatic Updates. I have mine set to the third option, “Notify me but don’t automatically download or install them (the updates)”.
This way, I see immediately when updates are available, but I can still choose the ones I want. Which brings me to another trick: When you go to the Windows Update page, click Custom, not Express. This will allow you to more easily pick and choose which updates you want.
You can thereby avoid Internet Explorer 7 and the monthly Malicious Software Removal Tool, aka Windows Defender, which in fact does not do a very good job of defending you against spyware and assorted malware.
Syd Tash is a noted computer security consultant and author of How to Protect Your Computer Online. He has been keeping Internet surfers safe and secure since the last century. Find out how he does it; protect your own computer with five layers of protection right here: => http://MyPCSecuritySite.com
You may include these Tips in your web sites and publications provided they remain unchanged and include the above paragraph, with the author’s name and web site.
