If Spyware exists on your computer (usually the result of a large infestation), your computer will likely exhibit one or more of the following:
- Degradation of performance due to heavy CPU, disk, and network activity
- Instability, with programs and the computer freezing, boot failures, and system crashes
- Inability to access the Internet
- The disabling of network firewalls and anti-virus software
- The reduction of browser security settings
- Popup ads
How does your computer become infested with Spyware? Generally, Spyware attaches itself to Freeware and Shareware software that you download onto your computer; or is comes bundled with other software. Some spyware programs even masquerade as security software. Internet Explorer is also a common source for Spyware infestation, having a history of security issues, its tight integration with the Windows operating system, its scriptability, and its browser helper objects. In some cases, Spyware is installed by a virus or worm (ex., Spybot).
What can you do? Spyware is a growing problem and there are a number of techniques that have emerged, including Anti-Spyware programs that remove and block spyware; Anti-Virus programs that include Spyware removal; and Spyware Removal Services. Using a Spyware Removal Service will offer the highest effective protection against Spyware, especially against the most malicious forms.
The approach to Anti-Spyware takes two forms:
The installation of anti-spyware software that provides real time protection (similar to anti-virus programs) by scanning all software that attempts to install itself on your computer
Detection and removal of spyware programs
Real time programs scan disk files during downloads, and blocks the operation of known Spyware programs. Detection type software inspects the contents of the computer's registry, operating system files, and installed files that are on a list of known spyware. Both types will require frequent updates to their database as new spyware is identified.
Also, you can employ certain safe practices that will reduce your exposure to Spyware...
Use a web browser other than Internet Explorer; such as Google Chrome, Opera, and Mozilla Firefox.
Block access to websites known to be sources of Spyware. This can be accomplished with your network firewall and web proxies.
Restrict downloading software from only reputable sources
Avoid installing fake anti-virus programs, such as: AntiVirus 360, Antivirus 2008, Antivirus 2009, AntiVirus Gold, ContraVirus, MacSweeper, Pest Trap, PSGuard, Spy Wiper, Spydawn, Spylocked, Spysheriff, SpyShredder, Spyware Quake, SpywareStrike, UltimateCleaner, WinAntiVirus Pro 2006, Windows Police Pro, WinFixer, WorldAntiSpy.
- Degradation of performance due to heavy CPU, disk, and network activity
- Instability, with programs and the computer freezing, boot failures, and system crashes
- Inability to access the Internet
- The disabling of network firewalls and anti-virus software
- The reduction of browser security settings
- Popup ads
How does your computer become infested with Spyware? Generally, Spyware attaches itself to Freeware and Shareware software that you download onto your computer; or is comes bundled with other software. Some spyware programs even masquerade as security software. Internet Explorer is also a common source for Spyware infestation, having a history of security issues, its tight integration with the Windows operating system, its scriptability, and its browser helper objects. In some cases, Spyware is installed by a virus or worm (ex., Spybot).
What can you do? Spyware is a growing problem and there are a number of techniques that have emerged, including Anti-Spyware programs that remove and block spyware; Anti-Virus programs that include Spyware removal; and Spyware Removal Services. Using a Spyware Removal Service will offer the highest effective protection against Spyware, especially against the most malicious forms.
The approach to Anti-Spyware takes two forms:
The installation of anti-spyware software that provides real time protection (similar to anti-virus programs) by scanning all software that attempts to install itself on your computer
Detection and removal of spyware programs
Real time programs scan disk files during downloads, and blocks the operation of known Spyware programs. Detection type software inspects the contents of the computer's registry, operating system files, and installed files that are on a list of known spyware. Both types will require frequent updates to their database as new spyware is identified.
Also, you can employ certain safe practices that will reduce your exposure to Spyware...
Use a web browser other than Internet Explorer; such as Google Chrome, Opera, and Mozilla Firefox.
Block access to websites known to be sources of Spyware. This can be accomplished with your network firewall and web proxies.
Restrict downloading software from only reputable sources
Avoid installing fake anti-virus programs, such as: AntiVirus 360, Antivirus 2008, Antivirus 2009, AntiVirus Gold, ContraVirus, MacSweeper, Pest Trap, PSGuard, Spy Wiper, Spydawn, Spylocked, Spysheriff, SpyShredder, Spyware Quake, SpywareStrike, UltimateCleaner, WinAntiVirus Pro 2006, Windows Police Pro, WinFixer, WorldAntiSpy.
No comments:
Post a Comment