< HOMEPAGE
|
Preventing Malicious Spyware or Adware from Hijacking Your Computer
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that it had used existing fair trade laws in asking a federal court to shut down some of the leading distributors of malicious “spyware” or “adware” software. This type of malicious software may be lumped with viruses, worms, and spam, and is all referred to as “malware” – short for malicious software.
What are spyware and adware software?
Spyware and adware are software that is installed on your computer, generally without your knowledge, that monitors or controls your computer’s use. The software may send pop-up ads, redirect you to an un-requested website while you are on the Internet, monitor your Internet activity or record your keystrokes while you are online. This recording of keystrokes may lead to identity theft or credit card fraud.
The terms “spyware” and “adware” are the essentially same type of software. They are software that you may not be aware of running on your computer.
The online marketers who distribute this type of software maintain that you have downloaded the software to help them better service your Internet marketing needs. They would also state that you received their software as part of another free software package that you downloaded and installed. Lastly, that during the download process, that you clicked on the “agree” button, where there was their statement that you would accept online pop-up ads for their advertised products.
This same software that have victimized individuals with a mysterious change in their opening Internet page, a new default search engine, an avalanche of pop-up ads while online, computer slow downs or a computer crash – know the software as spyware.
Any unsolicited software that runs on your computer is malicious spyware software.
Spyware Distribution
Regardless of what it is called -- your computer is infected just the same. Simply clicking on a banner ad can install spyware software. Worms, which are self-propagating viruses, can also carry spyware. They search for machines that don't have up-to-date security patches and install their crippling software. Spyware may also be distributed by email.
As stated before the biggest method of distributing spyware is to secretly bundle it with free software that you download from the Internet. Sites that offer music sharing, videos, weather data, games, screen savers, a tool bar, or program that synchronizes your computer’s clock often are paid to distribute this spyware as adware.
Such as file sharing programs like Kazaa, has adware bundled right in the package download.
Before these programs are installed, you must click a box saying you accept the contractual agreement. These agreements can be thousands of words long and people rarely read them. Upon closer examination, however, they would find that accepting pop-up ad serving software were part of getting the package.
Another common method is a message saying you need to download ActiveX to view a website or email note. Don't do it! It's just another method to get you to click yes to their adware.
Sometimes the presentation is an outright counterfeit of a Microsoft agreement or some other recognizable document. A safe rule to follow: If you're not sure what it is, don't click yes. Cancel out of the program any way you can, even if it means rebooting your computer.
Unlike virus writers, who mainly want to infect as many computers as they can just so they can brag, spyware distribution firms have a financial incentive to have their software stay on your computer as long as possible. The more of their ads that they load onto your computer screen, the more likely that you will click on one of the ads.
Is Your Computer Infected
To eliminate spyware, you must track down every file and completely erase it. That can be tough since spyware hides inside your computer's operating system, making it difficult to find.
If you suspect that your computers is infected and want to search the Internet for an “anti-spyware” solution -- be careful.
A Google search will return over 1,500,000 for “anti spyware software”. You will return about 749,000 hits for the phrase “anti-spyware software”. Some companies that offer anti-spyware software solutions also make spyware software. Who else would know how to remove spyware then the makers of spyware software? Their anti-spyware software may remove a version of spyware on your computer but discretely load a more current version of their spyware to be launched in a few days after you had thought that you had cleaned-up your spyware problem on your computer.
You may download three free spyware cleaning programs at:
Ad-Aware (www.lavasoftusa.com), Spybot (www.security.kolla.de), and CWshredder (www.spywareinfo.com/merijn/index.html)
Before you run any of these, use their automatic update feature to get the latest protection. Some users report better results when they make repeated passes with each of the three programs.
Cleaners can remove most of an infection, rendering it temporarily inactive. But components sometimes remain that download more files and re-infect your computer. Sometimes it helps to disconnect from the Internet, then reboot after you run the cleaner. If you know how to manage a fire wall like Zone Alarm, you may be able to use it to prevent persistent spyware from reconstituting itself.
If your computer is so bogged down with spyware, you may have trouble downloading the anti- spyware products before your computer crashes. In that case, you may have to obtain the programs from another computer with a CD burner, and then load the software onto your troubled computer using a CD.
Scan your hard drive at least once a week with two or more anti-spyware programs because each is likely to find files the other overlooks.
Ongoing Anti-Spyware Protection
To prevent future infections, never click on any popup ads or the body of any spam emails. Try closing unwanted pop-up ads using Alt-F4 in Windows. The Alt-F4 is a keystroke combination that decreases the risk you'll click on a disguised button to close a window that will actually open another window.
Keep your computer up to date with the latest security patches. Microsoft offers free updates at http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com, and free CDs can be ordered for users on slow-speed dial-up.
Windows recently announced the release of XP's Service Pack 2, which provides additional security measures such as a limited spyware blocker and a firewall.
Protection is an ongoing process since spyware makers are constantly creating new threats. You may download a good computer resources manager and security manager at, (www.onlinesoftwareguide.com/wintask).
Install a personal firewall. ZoneAlarm from Zone Labs has a free basic firewall for personal use. Symantec and McAfee sell popular personal firewall, anti-virus, anti-spyware software.
Next, set the computer's operating system for daily security updates.
Also set the Web browser to a medium or high-security level. For Windows, go to Microsoft's Web site for instructions. Windows XP users should install Service Pack 2, which makes it close to impossible for software to be downloaded without your being alerted. Consider switching to browser less popular than Internet Explorer, such as Mozilla Firefox (mozilla.org) or Opera (opera.com). They are less likely to be attacked.
If you have any problem implementing any of the above, be sure and contact your computer consultant. Finally, practice safe surfing. That means downloading only trustworthy software, reading licensing agreements, avoiding banner ads, and deleting all spam without opening.
Tips for Protecting You and Your Computer
•Do not click "yes" when an Active X dialog box keeps popping up unless you know exactly what you're downloading. •Do not open and delete all suspicious email messages. •Do not fill out any web forms asking for your social security number, driver's license, email passwords, bank account information, or your mother's maiden name. •Do not download or install any software unless you know and trust the source 100%. •Do not give your email address to anyone you don't know. •Clear out cookies and other tracking data on your computer. •Try using disposable email accounts when filling out forms on the Internet. •Do not enter any sweepstakes or contests online. Most of them capture your personal information and sell it to third party vendors. •Install software to counter-attack Spyware, Adware, Spam and pop-up ads. •You can file a complaint about unsolicited spyware software with the FTC at: www.ftc.gov. Click on "File a Complaint."
Websites That You Can Trust To Help
•Ad-Aware (www.lavasoftusa.com) •Spybot (www.security.kolla.de) •CWshredder (www.spywareinfo.com/merijn/index.html) •WinTask, Manages Resources and Improves Security (www.onlinesoftwareguide.com/wintask) •download of Ad-aware and Spybot Search & Destroy (www.download.com) •Spyware information tools, tips, and vendor for Trend Micro software (www.housecall.trendmicro.com) •McAfee anti-virus and anti-spyware software (www.mcafee.com) •Windows security patches and spyware protection information (www.microsoft.com/athome/security/viruses) •Virus and spyware scans (www.pcpitstop.com) •Lists software that may spread spyware (www.spywarewarrior.com/rogue_anti-spyware.htm) •Norton spyware information (www.symantec.com/avcenter/) •Spy Sweeper anti-spyware (www.webroot.com) •Zonelabs firewall (www.zonelabs.com)
Copyright Steven Presar
About the Author
Steven Presar is a recognized small business technology coach, Internet publisher, author, speaker, and trainer. He provides personal, home, and computer security solutions at www.ProtectionConnect.com. He provides business software reviews at www.OnlineSoftwareGuide.com. In addition, he publishes articles for starting and running a small business at www.Agora-Business-Center.com. Be sure to sign-up for the SOHO newsletter at this site.
Written by: Steven Presar
NAVIGATION
10 Easy Steps to Speed Up Your Computer Without Upgrading
10 Power Tips for Presentations with Computer Projection
10 PROVEN TIPS TO SURVIVE A COMPUTER CRASH
10 Secrets To A Healthy Computer And A Happier You
10 Tips on Computer Clutter Clean Up
14 Household Ways To Protect Your Computer From Viruses
3 Simple Ways To Save A Bunch Of Money When Buying A New Computer
3 Summer Computer Tips
30 Secrets Of A Good Computer Lesson
4 Computer Money saving Tips
5 Critical Steps to Protecting Your Computer on the Internet
5 Simple Ways To Increase Your Computer Speed
5 Stress Reducing Computer Tips
5 Sure Fire Tips for Buying a New Computer
5 Tips For Buying The Right Laptop Computer
5 Tips to Color Code Your Way from Computer Chaos to Coherence
5 Ways To Make Night And Weekend Computer Life Rich
5th generation Computers Corporate infrastructure
6 Essential Steps to Protect Your Computer On the Internet For Free
6 tips for Keeping Aurora Away from your computer and 1 tip to Fix it if Aurora has Gotten You
7 Barebones Computer Buying Tips
A Guide to Computer Desks
A Hacker Inside Your Computer
A Look at Computer Desks for Children
Advancement in Computer Technology
Adware Are Your Business s Computers Secure
All About Computer Viruses
An eBay Computer Purchase
Are cyber criminals phishing your identity from your computer
Are You At The Mercy Of Computer Geeks
Are You Being Mislead By Your Current Computer Dealer
Are You Making Any Money With Your Computer Yet
Are You Saving Money With a Computer Support Plan
Avoiding Spam Scams and Computer Viruses
Back that Thang UP Insure the Data on Your Computer
Basic Computer Thermodynamics
Be Prepared in the Event Computer Disaster Strikes
Beat The Bugs Helpful Links That May Help You Combat Annoying Computer Viruses
Becoming a Computer Trainer
Beeps Your computer is telling you something
Broadcasting Mp3 Audio Via Computer The Looney Tune World Of Podcasting
Build your first computer from hardware scratches
Build Your Own Computer
Build Your Own Computer or Buy
Build Your Own Computer What to Look for in a Case
Buy a home through your home computer
Buying a computer Ask these 3 questions
Buying a Used Laptop Computer
Buying computers at a discount with peace of mind
Buying DDR memory for your computer
Buying Guide for Laptops Personal Computers Notebooks
Buying the Perfect Computer The FIRST Time
Career Track Computer Programmer
Career Track Computer Software Engineers
Choosing a Laptop Computer Based on Hardware and Software Needs
Classification of Computers
Combat Computer Spyware An AntiSpyware Program Isn t Enough
Computer Aided Design Contracting Tax Concerns In The UK
COMPUTER BACKUPS
Computer Business Opportunity Provide Huge Profit Potential
Computer Buying Advice For Novices
Computer Career
Computer Case Modding
Computer Cases The Basics
Computer Certification Anticipation vs Nervousness
Computer Certification Become A Utility Player
Computer Cleaning
Computer Cleaning May Be The Best Home Based Part time or Full time Business
Computer Components for Idiots
Computer Consulting 101 Hiring Tips Part 1 of 2
Computer Consulting Profit Secrets
Computer Controlled LED Signs
COMPUTER COURTESY
Computer Data Backup Data Backup Solution Will Give You A Peace Of Mind
Computer Data Backups Test Now or Cry Later
Computer Data Recovery Options
Computer Disposal Throwing Away Your Computer Money and Idenity
Computer Do s and Don ts
Computer Equipment Disposals and Recycling
Computer Geeks and Garden Gnomes
Computer Graphics They re Not All The Same
Computer Hacks Quacks Looking for Cracks
Computer Hardware Preventive Maintenance Software
Computer Help Desk Stupid Questions brought to you by Computer Service Now CSN
Computer Homeschooling the added advantage in african american children s education Part 1
Computer Hygiene Take Out The Trash
Computer In The Shop What Do You Do Now
Computer Insurance
Computer Loans An opportunity to have a computer of your own
Computer Loans Become Techno Savvy the Easier Way
Computer Maintenance and Improving PC Performance
Computer Monitor Buying Guide
Computer Network Designing
Computer Network Installation
Computer Profits From Home What s Right for You
Computer Rental Worth Your Money
Computer Rentals The Best Classroom Computer Training Solution
Computer Running Slow Here s One Reason
Computer Security What Exactly Is It
Computer software Excellent prices
Computer Software Genres That Help Students Think
Computer SOS Inc Release of Upgraded League Management Software Package
Computer Support London Network Support London Network Installation London
Computer Tips that Help Small Businesses Operate Profitably
Computer Traumas
COMPUTER VIRUS THREATENS MY HOME BUSINESS
Computer Virus Writer s A Few Bats In The Belfry
Computer Viruses are Bad Luck
Computer Viruses Worms and Hoaxes
Computers and Internet Inspiring Us to Create
Computers and Web Cams are Taking Communication to Levels Only Imagined in Sci Fi Novels
Computers Are Not Scary
Computers are Running My Life
Computers Freedom and Privacy
Computers Introverts and the Information Age
Computers You CAN Master Any Program
Coping with a Serious Data Loss from your Computer Hard Drive
Corporate infrastructure for Fifth generation Computers
Corporate Promotional Gifts The Fridge Magnet Is Dead Long Live the Computer Desktop
Countering the Spread of Spyware on your Computer
D BUST Your Computer Part 1 Instructions for Microsoft Users
D BUST Your Computer Part 2 for Microsoft users
D BUST Your Computer Part 3 for Microsoft users
D BUST Your Computer Part 4 a for Microsoft users
D BUST Your Computer Part 4 b
D BUST Your Computer Part 4 c
D BUST Your Computer Part 4 d
D BUST Your Computer Part 5
Definitions for Computer Modding and Form Factor
Dell Computer Corporation Recall of Latitude Inspiron Laptop AC Adapters
Detecting and Eliminating Computer Viruses at the Gateway
Did You Ever Want to Completely Erase Everything on Your Computer
Different Categories of Computer Games
Dirty Little Computer Viruses and How To Protect Yourself
Distance Learning and Elearning for Computer Techs
Do The Media Spread Computer Viruses
Do You Feel Used by Computers
Do You Know How To Remove Spyware From Your Computer
Do you know who is snooping around your computer right now
Do you need computer training
Dual core computer processors luxury or necessity
Dusting Your Computer Keeping it Cool
Expansion Slots Cards and Bays Choosing the right computer case
Extending the Life of Your Business or Personal Computer Printer
Finally An Understandable Introduction To Computers
Five Simple Steps to Speed up Your Computer
Focus On White Collar Crime Accounting Fraud and Computer Crimes Creates Need For Qualified Investigators
Gaming Computers and Computer Modding
Get Ahead When You Build Your Own Computer
Get Started in Computer Game Creation
Get Valuable Computer Based Training Online FREE
Getting Started In Information Technology Computer Consulting
Good News Bad News of Computer Security from a Keen Non Techie
Guide on How to Land Computer Jobs
Hackers Given Access to IRS Computers
Hardware for Computer Desks
Have You Invited A Spy Into Your Computer
Healthy Webmasters Choose Ergonomic Computer Products
Heliodisplay Computer Video With No Screen
Help Keep the Computers on Earth Clean and Healthy
Help Keep The Computers On Earth Clean And Healthy Protect Your Techno Friends From Viruses And Sickness
Help My Computer s Being Invaded
Help There s an Intruder in my Computer
Hidden information is stored on your computer about every url you ever visit
Home Computer Desks A Variety of Options
Home Office Tip 2 Computer Health Hazards
How a Computer Consulting Business Can Help Your Company
How Much Money would it cost you to regain the use of your computer after a serious virus infection
How Protected are You Safeguard Your Small Business from Computer Viruses
How Safe is Your Critical Business Data on Your Computer System
How Spyware Blaster Can Protect Your Computer From Harm
How to backup your computer data
How to Backup Your Computer Files
How to Become a Computer Consultant
How To Buy The Right Computer
How to choose a new hard drive for your computer
How to choose your computer
How To Deal With Computer Problems
How to Get a FREE Computer Scale Printer from DHL
HOW TO GET THE COMPUTER YOU WANT WITHOUT SPENDING A FORTUNE
How to Have Your Computer Cake and Keep Your Family Too
How To Keep Your Computer Virus Free
How To Optimize Your Online Time Through Efficient Computer Use
How to Prevent Computer Security Risk and How to Keep Your Small Business Safe
How To Prevent Spyware Attacking Your Computer
How To Recognize If Your Computer Has A Virus Or Trojan On It
How to reduce Computer problems
How to safeguard your computer
How To Save Big Bucks On A Laptop Computer
How To Stop The 1 Cause Of Computer Slow Downs And Crashes
How To Take Care Of Your Laptop Computer
How To Take Good Care Of Your Computer Even If You Are A Clueless Newbie
How To Work At Home Using Your Computer Even If You Can t Type
How Viruses and Spyware Get In to your computer
HR MANAGERS USE COMPUTER FORENSICS TO INVESTIGATE EMPLOYEE ALLEGATIONS
Hurricanes Wilma Katrina And Rita Force Businesses To Rethink Computer
I Spy Something Terribly Wrong In Your Computer
If You Had Problems in the Past with a Computer Virus Then You ll Want to Know How Easy it is to Setup Firewall Protection
Image conversion In Computers
Important Steps to Protect your Computer from Hurricanes
In Computer Memory what is CAS Latency
Is DVD Storage An Attractive Alternative For Your Computer Backup
Is Spyware Slowing Your Computer Down To A Crawl
Is your Computer a friend or a Dirty Name
Is your Computer Infected with Spyware
Is Your Computer Sick
Is Your Computer Slow and Sluggish Take These Steps To Speed It Up
Is Your Computer Strong Enough For A work From Home Internet Business
Jobs Online How To Get Your Computer to Work For YOU
Keep A Diary Of Your Computer
Keep Computer Training Simple Please
Keeping your Computer Spyware Free for Free
Laptop Computer Extras for the Mobile Traveler
Laptop Computers and the PVP Effect
LCD Touch Screen Computer Monitor
Learn How To Hide Files and Folders On Your Computer
Learning Math and Dosage Calculations Using a Computer Program
Local Company gains Four Nominations in Computer Trade Oscars
Make a place for computers in children s world
make alot of mney using ur computer
Make your computer read selected text from any application with a single keystroke
Make Your Fortune in Computer Services
Make your own Computer Software without Programming
MCSE CCNA How To Choose A Computer Certification
More Computer Consulting 101 Hiring Tips Part 2 of 2
My Computer is Making a Strange Noise
My dad listens to music all day on his computer
Newbie Of course you can make money working from home on your computer
No Computer Sound
Notebook or Desktop Computer Which Should You Choose
One Way to Solve Memory Problems with your Computer
Optimize Your Computer For Peak Performance
Organization Tips How to Organise Your Computer Files
Organizing Your Desktop Computer Desktop That Is
Paranoia or Are Public Internet Computers Dangerous
Performance Computer Chips For Cars And Trucks
physical topology of a network refers to the configuration of cables computers
Protect and Secure Your Computer Life
Protect Your Computer
Protect your Computer and Internet Privacy
Protect Your Computer and Your Business
Protect Your Computer And Your Personal Information From Spyware
Protect Your Computer System With A Comprehensive Security Policy
Protecting Your Computer from Adware and Spyware
Quick Guide to Computer Training
Rackmount Computer Keyboards
Rackmount Computer Monitors Provide Dependability
Read Chinese Online How To Configure Your Computer To Display Chinese Characters
Real Estate Records In The Computer Age
Refurbished Computers on the Internet
Reinstall Windows XP On Your Computer
Removing Bargain Buddy Adware from your Computer
Reviving Old Computer Games
Secrets to SpyProofing Your Computer In Four Easy Steps
Secure Your Data Windows Data Backup Computer Software
Securing your Computer to Keep Up with Internet Threats
Security necessities to prevent your computer from Spyware
See How To Revive A Dead Computer
Setting up Your New Computer How To Move Your Old Files to Your New Computer
Should You Buy A Cheap Computer Desk
Some Computer Forensics Basics
Speed Up Your Computer Inner cleansing tips for your pc
Spyware Protection A Must for Any Home Computer
Starting A Home Computer Business Is Still Smart
Success at Work Techniques Computer Literacy
Survival Without Computers
Ten Great Careers For Computer Geeks
The ABCs Of Computer Memory
The Benifits of Assembling Your Own Computer
The Charm of an Oak Computer Desk
The Complete Guide To Spotting Computer Spies Recording Devices
The Computer Friendly Resume
The computer virus that could take advantage of you
The Cost of Spyware on your Computer
The Evolution of Technology The History of Computers
The Flexibility of Roll Top Computer Desks
The Future Of Computer Certification Exams
The Great Underutilized Computer
The Hidden Benefit Of Computer Certifications
The History Of Laptop Computers
The Need for Rackmount Computer Cases
The Newbie s Guide to Personal Computer Maintenance
The Secret Computer Virus That is Virtually Undetectable
The Single Least Expensive Yet Most Valuable Way to Upgrade Your Computer s Performance
The Top Twelve Threats No Computer User Should Ignore by Kai Chandler
The Trials and Tribulations of A Confused Computer
The Trials and Tribulations Of Learning A New Computer Skill
Thinking about earning your computer degree online
Three Things You Can Do to Keep Your Computer Running at Maximum Performance
Tips for Buying a First Computer
Tips For Finding Great Deals On Computer Accessories Supplies
Tips For the Late Blooming Computer User
Top 10 things everyone must know about computer viruses
Top 10 Ways to Protect Yourself from Computer Viruses
Transfer The Digital Camera Images To Your Computer
Twelve Things You Should Know to Save on Computer Software
Twelve Threats No Computer User Should Ignore
Types of computer infections
Ultimate Checklist On How To Revive A Dead Computer
Understanding Computer Memory
Understanding the Software Layers of a Computer
Unleash The Dragon Inside Your Computer
Update your computer system with bad credit computer financing
Use Internet Resources To Get Rid Of Computer Viruses
Use Your Computer For Your Entertainment Needs
User Friendliness Do Computers Have to be Clinical and Boring
WARNING Do not buy a computer until you read this
Watch Out For eBay Automobile And Computer Scams
Watch out for spyware programs that slow down your computer system
Watch Out For Spyware Programs That Slows Down Your Computer System
What are Rackmount Computers
What is a Protocol the communications between computers on a network
What Is Computer Programming Anyway
WHAT IS SPYWARE AND HOW DO I REMOVE IT FROM MY COMPUTER
What Paper or Computer Files Should You Keep
What s in a Computer Name
What to look for in a Computer Classroom Rental
When to rent a laptop computer
Which Notebook Computer Has Your Name On It
Who s Peering Into Your Computer
Why Build Your Own Gaming Computer
WHY CONSULTANTS DON T TELL ABOUT COMPUTER SECURITY
Why Do I Need Anti Virus Software For My Computer
Why More Women Should Consider a Career in Computer Programming
Wireless The new trend in Computer Rentals and Projector Rentals
Work A Home Computer Jobs Are Plentiful
Work At Home Computer Jobs Can Give You Freedom
Work From Home Using Computer
You Can Stop Computer Viruses
You Voice On Your Own Computer
Your Affiliate Business Peripherals Software Computers
Your Computer Can t Keep Time
Your Computer May Be Infected Here s how to check
Your Computer May Be Infected Here s How To Check NOT about virus
YOUR PRIVACY EXPOSED Computer Forensics International uncovers secrets about recycled hard drives
Zen and the Art of Buying Computer Parts
|