Is your Computer Infected with Spyware?
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| by Amin Sadak |
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 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 unrecognized items in your task manager. If you
notice anything unusual do a full scan with recommended
software. Make sure your protection isn't flawed.
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| About
the Author: More information, recommendation and
guides can be found at http://www.spywarelive.com |
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