IS MY COMPUTER OPEN TO SPYWARE

Spyware infects more than 90% of all PCs today. These malicious programs are designed to covertly bypass firewalls and anti-virus software without the user's knowledge. Once embedded in a computer, it can wreak havoc on the systems performance while gathering your personal information.



Typically, spyware originates in three ways. The first and most common way is when the user installs it. In this scenario, spyware is embedded, attached, or bundled with a freeware or shareware program without the user's knowledge. Once downloaded, the spyware program goes to work gathering data for the spyware author's personal use or to sell to a third-party. Beware of many P2P file-sharing programs. They are notorious for downloads which are spyware programs.


Another way that spyware can gain access to your computer is by tricking you into manipulating the security features designed to prevent any unwanted installations. The Internet Explorer Web browser was designed not to allow websites to start any undesired downloads. For example, a pop-up modeled after a ordinary Windows dialog box, may appear on your screen. The message may ask you if you would like to improve your internet access. It provides yes or no answer buttons, but, no matter which button you push, a download including the spyware program will commence.


Some spyware applications corrupt a system by entering security holes in the Web browser or other program. When the user navigates a webpage controlled by a spyware author, the page contains code designed to attack the browser, and force the installation of the spyware program.


Spyware programs can accomplish a multitude of malicious tasks!

Spyware can:
1 Monitor your keystrokes for reporting purposes.
2 Scan files based on your hard drive.
3 Snoop through applications on your desktop.
4 Install other spyware applications into your computer.
5 Read your cookies.
6 Steal credit card numbers, passwords, and other personal information.
7 Change the default settings on your home page web browser.
8 Mutate into a second propagation of spyware thus making it more complicated to eradicate.
9 Cause your computer to run slower.
10 Deliver annoying pop up posters.
11 Add advertising links to web pages for which the author does not get paid. Instead, compensation to the spyware programmer that changed the affiliates settings.
12 Provide the user with no uninstall option and places itself in unexpected or hidden places within your computer making it complicated to remove.


How can I prevent spyware?


There are a few things you can do to prevent spyware from infecting your computer or laptop system.


Invest in a reliable commercial anti-spyware program. There are several currently on the market including stand alone software programs such as Lavasofts Ad-Aware or Windows Antispyware. Other options offer the anti-spyware software as part of an anti-virus package. This type of option is offered by companies such as Sophos, Symantec, and McAfee. Anti-spyware programs can combat spyware by providing real-time protection, data processing, and removal of any found spyware software.


As with most programs, update your anti virus software frequently.


And, when all else fails?


If your computer has been contaminated with a large number of spyware programs, the only solution you may have is backing up your data, and performing a complete reinstall of the operating system.