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Is your Computer Infected with Spyware?
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By Amin Sadak
[Hits: 19886]
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Is your computer running slower than it should be? Do you findthat de-fragmentation and extra memory doesn't help? Do youthink it could be a virus? What do you do in situations likethese? I suppose you'd run your antivirus software. But whathappens when the problem still remains even after you've runyour antivirus software? In situations like these, many peoplewould turn to technical support. Does this situation soundfamiliar?
Every day, there are thousands of Internet users who suffer fromthe same problem. This problem is caused by nasty infectioussoftware called spyware. Over 10% of calls made to technicalsupport relate to spyware problems. According to Microsoft, 50%of all windows based problems are caused by trojans, viruses andspyware. http://www.spywarelive.com has relevant information oncombating spyware and its sources.
Adware, Malware, Trojans and Keyloggers all fall under theumbrella name of spyware. Many times these programs areautomatically installed on your computer without intervention.Depending on which program is infecting your computer, manyunwanted actions take place. Some of the things which couldoccur as a result of having spyware on your computer are:Settings may change Your computer can be monitored remotely Yourcomputer can be controlled remotely Your actions can be recordedAdvertisements can be displayed on your desktop
The most prominent spyware programs are:
Adware: This type of program download all sorts ofadvertisements to your computer and displays them whilst yousurf the Internet. Key Loggers: This program records all yourmovements and actions on your PC and reports directly to thehacker. Dialers: A dialer is a program which he uses your phoneline to dial premium rate numbers. Browser Hijacker: Theseprograms change your browser settings so your start page andsearch 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 ordamage to your computer. It can even cause problems with yourcomputer hardware. Spyware will not damage your computer but itis a pain and nuisance to have running in your processes.Spyware is intended to watch over or control you and yoursystem. Since spyware and viruses are two different programs,antivirus software will not remove a spyware program.Thankfully, companies which make antivirus programs are nowintegrating 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 toallow browser plug-ins to be installed automatically. Sometimesthese contain spyware. Some web sites install spyware whilst youyour on their web page. Over 80% of these types of websites areporn related. If you download or install games or pictures fromunscrupulous websites, you're most likely to be infected withspyware. The worst type of spyware is one which tells you thatit will eliminate infections from your computer but if you clickon the ad, it will install spyware instead.
What can you do about it? Use the Firefox browser. This willminimize the chances of being infected. Be wary of sites youvisit and download items from. Keep your windows up to date.Install anti-spyware software. Make sure your firewall updatesitself.
Look out for tell-tale signs of spyware infection, such as slowresponses, ads popping up, extra icons in your system tray andunrecognised items in your task manager. If you notice anythingunusual do a full scan with recommended software. Make sure yourprotection isn't flawed.
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