 | Tech-FAQ Tip: Click Here to Check for PC Errors |
How do I protect my computer from spyware?
As if viruses, worms and spam haven't been bad enough, now Internet users must contend with spyware and adware. It may seem like privacy and security are something that is unachievable when using the internet, but there are ways to protect your privacy and the security of your PC.
Spyware is a software program that intrudes into one's computer or network and collects and sends personal information to a third party (generally the owner of the spyware) who might have initiated the program that may be spying on your every Internet move. The information collected may include personal browsing patterns or something as sensitive as your username and various passwords. In a worst case scenario, this could mean a degree of identity theft. Unscrupulous companies sometimes make use of the stolen information to send unsolicited advertisements and other promotions either by pop ups or email and may include the passing of your Internet viewing habits to third parties for additional spamming.
Is their any Spyware in the PC?
Mostly spyware is installed in ways users may not realize so it may be impossible for the consumer to notice the intrusion. The first suspicion of a possible spyware attack often begins when some of the applications begin to run more slowly or when the system locks up on a frequent basis.
Generally a spyware program is installed on a PC using one of two primary techniques. 1) The user unintentionally installs the program by clicking on a link, which actually is attached to the installation of an executable file. 2) Sometimes Spyware installation may appear as an innocuous dialog box. However, any attempt to close the box by clicking the close button will actually trigger Spyware installation. In fact, if this situation occurs, the end user is left with no choice but to restart the system. An empty window with a title bar is a variation of the dialog box trap, where the spyware gets installed when the user tries to close the window.
Additionally, adware and Spyware might be bundled with freeware programs. For example, many of the free file-sharing programs include some form of spyware which is installed when the user attempts to install the original freeware program. Many user agreements for freeware will alert you to the fact that a Spyware program is part of the download, but most users don't take the time to read the fine print.
Once installed, spyware can transmit sensitive information as long as the user remains online. Also, once the spyware establishes itself in a PC, it is especially difficult to completely remove its effects.
Protection
Earlier, antivirus software didn't provide protection against Spyware simply because they were not classified as either a virus or worm. Secondly, Spyware will not actually damage the PC (even though it does decrease performance) or multiply and spread through the user's address book which is why it falls outside the general definition of a virus. However, things are changing and all major antivirus products today come with added Spyware protection. For example, the new versions of Norton AntiVirus 2006 and McAfee VirusScan, can catch many of the popular adware and spyware. Exclusive anti-Spyware software is also available. But, regular updates may be the best way to ensure you are eradicating all current Spyware programs.
Attack Prevention
The two easiest methods of preventing unwanted Spyware is to avoid clicking unwanted links and then thinking twice before beginning freeware installation. If you enjoy the benefits of freeware, make sure it is safe or free from any hidden danger by reading all of the user agreements. Most Spyware programs use popups to scam the end user so it makes sense to install a popup blocker to prevent those unwanted popups. If you see a suspicious looking popup consider rebooting your PC instead of clicking anywhere within the popup. Adjusting the browser settings and installing a firewall can also stop unwanted intrusion to a large degree.
Bookmark How do I protect my computer from spyware?
