Is Free Porn on the Internet Really Free?

People used to warn that there's no such thing as a free lunch, but in today's Internet infused world, the new age caveat is "there's no such thing as free porn."

(or screensavers, or smilies, or downloads... you get the picture...)

No matter how you slice it, there are millions upon millions of website shysters waiting to peddle their free wares in exchange for your computer's soul. They offer free downloads or images for your entertainment and in exchange sneak dialers, spywear, cookies, pop ups, and even add bookmarks to your web browser. Each of these programs not only invades your privacy, but they also have a nasty side effect of slowing your computer system down.

It's not really surprising that these freebies come with a "price." When you view or download free graphics, it opens a window for the seller of said items to load you up with ads and do their best to encourage you to either buy the full package or at least keep you on the hook to tempt you with other products/services. In addition, there is a less obvious price to be paid. Users report everything from having to reinstall their operating systems to constantly having to run virus/spyware scans in order to remove the offensive materials.

So, what is the unsuspecting user to do when seeking free graphics or downloads?

The jury is still out as to whether avoidance (meaning: back away from the graphic goodies!) is the best measure. Though, it's easy to assess it will cure 90 to 99 percent of the problems, there will still be times where might inadvertently stumble upon one of these hard-to-refuse freebies, or you may simply wish to download screensavers or graphics without repercussions.

If abstaining is not your cup of tea, then it's prudent to invest in a third-party firewall software such as Symatec's Sygate. Firewalls help filter what is allowed onto your computer and in simple terms, help block the bad stuff from getting in. There are also browsers touted to have built in firewalls ideal for browsing the web without harm, such as Modzilla's Firefox.

Other safety precautions include the purchase and installation of virus/spyware protection software programs such as Avast Anti-Virus, Spybot, AdAware, WinPatrol, or SpywareBlaster. Regular use of these programs can help detect problems and aid in cleaning up your computer.

Also, check your Internet browser software to see if it has built-in blocker features such as a pop-up blocker or a phishing filter (phishing filters help detect the legitimacy of websites to help you avoid scams.)

Lastly, take time to research your software options to find the best combination that is compatible with your computer system. While all the above programs and suggestions are ideal, they may not be the best choices for your system. If you are not computer literate or uncertain of what choices to make, ask a "techy" friend, contact your local technical school and speak with the computer department chair, or contact your computer manufacturer directly for suggestions.

Whatever you do, don't get caught on the internet without protection.