How do you find or notice attempts to infect your computer?

[Drag'nGT]

So while browsing the internet I have had the computer pop up to alert me that a program has downloaded itself.

The first was PerformanceOptimizer which shrunk my screen and "informed me about the dangers of viruses"... Then it force downloaded itself and my downloads stack showed me the .exe file. I removed and ran clamXav.

Now the same thing happened but today it called itself Antivirus 2009. I force quit Safari and nothing downloaded to my stack.

So now I'm curious... is this how others here notice these attempts that are aimed at PC users?

How do you guys notice the attempts to infect your computer?

On a personal note, should I look into something since I've had 2 similar experiences with what could be the same program?

 

[Eidorian]

Sounds like Java/Javascript nonsense which is why people run NoScript.

Also, it's an .exe. You're afraid of this on a non-Windows operating system why?

 

[killmoms]

I never have these problems. Then again, I use Safari AdBlock and don't surf questionable sites.

 

[Drag'nGT]

Sounds like Java/Javascript nonsense which is why people run NoScript.

Also, it's an .exe. You're afraid of this on a non-Windows operating system why?

What's NoScript?

I'm not afraid. I'm curious how others here notice attempted infections.

I never have these problems. Then again, I use Safari AdBlock and don't surf questionable sites.

Adblock = built in popup blocker?
Google and MySpace aren't what I would call questionable.

 

[Eidorian]

What's NoScript?

I'm not afraid. I'm curious how others here notice attempted infections.

http://www.letmegooglethatforyou.com/?q=noscript

Adblock = built in popup blocker?
Google and MySpace aren't what I would call questionable.

Once again Google...

http://safariadblock.sourceforge.net/

MySpace is VERY questionable. I'm surprised your browser didn't just crash right there.

 

[GimmeSlack12]

You notice if a .exe is downloaded. Thats how.
MySpace is harmless.

 

[Drag'nGT]

http://www.letmegooglethatforyou.com/?q=noscript

Once again Google...

http://safariadblock.sourceforge.net/

MySpace is VERY questionable. I'm surprised your browser didn't just crash right there.

Thanks but I was asking for the friendly cliffsnotes version "it keeps malicious sites from slipping in through good ones"

Safari Adblock does get rid of some ads on the websites but sadly not all of them. Some is better than none I suppose.