Is your Computer Infected with Spyware?
Is your computer running slower than it should be? Do you find
that de-fragmentation and extra memory doesn't help? Do you
think it could be a virus? What do you do in situations like
these? I suppose you'd run your antivirus software. But what
happens when the problem still remains even after you've run
your antivirus software? In situations like these, many people
would turn to technical support. Does this situation sound
familiar?
Every day, there are thousands of Internet users who suffer from
the same problem. This problem is caused by nasty infectious
software called spyware. Over 10% of calls made to technical
support relate to spyware problems. According to Microsoft, 50%
of all windows based problems are caused by trojans, viruses and
spyware. http://www.spywarelive.com has relevant information on
combating spyware and its sources.
Adware, Malware, Trojans and Keyloggers all fall under the
umbrella name of spyware. Many times these programs are
automatically installed on your computer without intervention.
Depending on which program is infecting your computer, many
unwanted actions take place. Some of the things which could
occur as a result of having spyware on your computer are:
Settings may change Your computer can be monitored remotely Your
computer can be controlled remotely Your actions can be recorded
Advertisements can be displayed on your desktop
The most prominent spyware programs are:
Adware: This type of program download all sorts of
advertisements to your computer and displays them whilst you
surf the Internet. Key Loggers: This program records all your
movements and actions on your PC and reports directly to the
hacker. Dialers: A dialer is a program which he uses your phone
line to dial premium rate numbers. Browser Hijacker: These
programs change your browser settings so your start page and
search preferences are redirected elsewhere.
What is the difference between spyware and a virus?
A virus is a file or program which can cause actual harm or
damage to your computer. It can even cause problems with your
computer hardware. Spyware will not damage your computer but it
is a pain and nuisance to have running in your processes.
Spyware is intended to watch over or control you and your
system. Since spyware and viruses are two different programs,
antivirus software will not remove a spyware program.
Thankfully, companies which make antivirus programs are now
integrating anti-spyware components within their software.
How do you get spyware on your computer in the first place?
There are several ways this may happen. You may have elected to
allow browser plug-ins to be installed automatically. Sometimes
these contain spyware. Some web sites install spyware whilst you
your on their web page. Over 80% of these types of websites are
porn related. If you download or install games or pictures from
unscrupulous websites, you're most likely to be infected with
spyware. The worst type of spyware is one which tells you that
it will eliminate infections from your computer but if you click
on the ad, it will install spyware instead.
What can you do about it? Use the Firefox browser. This will
minimize the chances of being infected. Be wary of sites you
visit and download items from. Keep your windows up to date.
Install anti-spyware software. Make sure your firewall updates
itself.
Look out for tell-tale signs of spyware infection, such as slow
responses, ads popping up, extra icons in your system tray and
unrecognised items in your task manager. If you notice anything
unusual do a full scan with recommended software. Make sure your
protection isn't flawed.