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- Jun 30 2008
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Spyware programs come in many shapes and sizes. Some are very obvious, like those that flood your computer screen with unwanted advertisements. Other less flamboyant types of spyware programs lurk in your system, secretly gathering your personal information.
Depending on who you talk to, spyware programs can also be called adware (advertisement+software) and malware (malicious+software). No matter what you call them, they are bad news.
In general, spyware is defined as a program that has been downloaded to your computer without consent. It is virtual hijacking. The spyware programs materialize in various ways. While some are concerned with surveillance, others take control of your computer.
Some spyware tracks your every online move. This is usually done for the purpose of gaining information about the types of sites you visit. This information can be collected and then sold to advertisers. The advertisers use the spyware programs to figure out how to market to whom. So if you’ve ever been surfing the web for a cruise vacation and then found yourself being bombarded with vacation package popups, it’s likely you have spyware or adware.
Another way spyware programs work is by literally taking control of your computer. Not only does it become saturated with popups, it also may be nearly unusable because of error messages or other out of the ordinary occurrences. This type of breakdown in system performance makes it easy for the user to identify that spyware is causing the problem.
The worst kind of spyware programs are called keyloggers. These spyware programs not only secretly record your every keystroke, they also send that information back to the perpetrating hacker. This means that everything from your email, to bank passwords, to credit card numbers are gathered by the keylogger. To make matters worse, you might have no idea of the presence of the keylogger until it is too late.
Preventing and Combating Spyware Programs
One way to avoid spyware programs is by using a Macintosh or a PC with a non-Windows operating system. Spyware programs are mostly written for PCs with Windows since those are the most prevalent among computer owners. However, if Macs or PC operating systems like Linux become more popular it is virtually guaranteed that spyware will become a major problem for these operating systems. Because Windows has the largest market share spyware is typically targetted for the Windows platform.
Some people recommend using Firefox as an alternative web browser. But, this won’t stop all spyware. Personally I use Internet Explorer, Firefox and Opera. Each has it’s advantages and disadvantages.
Since hackers will probably adapt and eventually create spyware programs to work with other operating systems and web browsers, it’s a good idea to develop vigilant web surfing habits right away. These habits include the following:
* Be knowledgeable about the online sites you visit. If a site says you must download something to view the page, you are better off missing out on the website rather than putting your computer at risk for infection.
* Ignore pop-ups. Never follow a link or click “okay.” Just close the pop up and move on.
* Don’t open spam. Spammers are notorious for including spyware programs in their emails.
* Be careful when downloading. This especially includes unnecessary downloads like new toolbars and games.
* Run a regular scan for spyware. You protect your house and car from theft with a lock, why wouldn’t you protect your computer?
For the time being, however, spyware, adware, and malware is here to stay. In fact, most people who own a computer have encountered some sort of spyware.
Take the aforementioned steps in order to both eliminate current spyware programs and prevent future ones from infecting your system. After all, the many important pieces of information that are transferred via your computer and the Internet are worth protecting.
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- Jun 30 2008
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A toolbar is supposed to offer something useful, right? And tools are supposed to be helpful devices that in some way serve as aids, correct? Unfortunately, spyware has found a way to make toolbars into something rather undesirable. While one toolbar is useful, a barrage of ten different spyware toolbars that obstruct your view of the website you are trying to look at is not.
When a Spyware Toolbar Takes Over Your Computer
While some spyware creeps around your system without your knowledge, other types are quite obvious. One surefire way to know you have spyware is if your computer is suddenly experiencing an influx of spyware toolbars.
Perhaps you’ve downloaded one toolbar to help you with searches and other various tasks. But when you find layer upon layer of spyware toolbars, you know your system has been invaded.
Like adware, you know you have a problem as soon as it gets onto your system. Spyware toolbars are there to render your computer virtually useless, as well as give you a big headache.
Spyware Toolbars’ Origins
Spyware toolbars come from a variety of different hosts. The most common way to get unwanted spyware toolbars is through freeware. Freeware includes any type of software that can be downloaded on the Internet for free. Games, wallpapers, videos, songs, and a variety of other things are often considered to be a type of freeware. Hackers use this freeware as bait to lure unsuspecting computer users into their trap. Whenever you download a free program, you may also be downloading a spyware toolbar.
Popups are another source from which spyware toolbars come. Even pop-ups that appear to be offering something desirable can carry a spyware toolbar. For this reason, computer users should always avoid clicking on pop-ups, regardless of what they promise. All different kinds of spyware is transferred through popup advertisements; you are better off simply ignoring the ad and closing it immediately.
File-sharing programs also contribute to the spread of spyware toolbars. These programs include millions of useful files; however, amongst the good files are the ones infected with spyware. Computer users should always be wary of sharing files with a stranger online. You never know if it could be a hacker attempting to corrupt your computer system with a spyware toolbar.
Removing Dangerous Toolbars
Spyware toolbars are a hassle to get rid of once you have them, but it is possible to clean your system of them. The first and most important step is to intall antispyware software. This software will help you detect the spyware toolbars, as well as wipe them off your computer for good.
Good antispyware software will also promise to prevent future spyware toolbars from being installed onto your computer. These programs do this by offering regular updates to combat the new types of spyware toolbars that are released onto the Internet by malicious hackers.
Spyware toolbars are a major annoyance that luckily can be erased and prevented. Good antispyware software, in conjunction with responsible internet habits, will help you keep your computer system clean for the long haul.
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- Jun 29 2008
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Computer viruses, spyware, and trojan horses are just a few of the names for the hacker created bugs that invade our computer systems. The computer trojan horse aptly gets its name from an ancient Greek myth about the trojan horse built by Odysseus. As the Greeks were losing the battle of Troy during the Trojan Wars, Odysseus arranged for a giant wooden horse to be delivered to Troy as an apparent peace offering. During the night, it was revealed that the wooden horse actually housed an army of Greek soldiers who planned a sneak attack against the Trojans.
The trojan horse is a fitting name for this particular type of spyware because it serves a similar function in today’s world as it did in ancient Greece. While the computer trojan horse appears to be one thing, it is actually something quite different. It might look like something positive, but it is the very opposite.
Disguising a Trojan Horse
Hackers work hard to disguise trojan horses in various ways in order to dupe the everyday computer user. Sometimes it will come in the form of a popup that congratulates you on winning $10,000. Upon clicking on the popup, you infect your computer with a trojan horse.Similarly, a trojan horse can get into your computer through different kinds of downloads. They can come from any type of file, whether it is music, video, or text. Hackers make it a point to hide what you are really downloading before you realize what you have.
The Wrath of a Trojan Horse
Trojan horses can create a long list of problems for you and your computer. The first that comes to mind for many is adware. This stuff travels with useful downloads that you choose to put on your computer, like a free game or a new type of music player.When you download that game or player, you are also accepting adware, which will flood your computer with pesky popups and unwanted advertisements. Sometimes adware can make your computer virtually unusable because of the volume of advertisements.
Other types of spyware transferred to your computer via trojan horses can have other detrimental effects on your computer system. Common symptoms of a trojan horse are a slowing system and inexplicable changes to your web browser, like a change in your homepage or unwanted toolbars that materialize.
While the aforementioned trojan horses can prove to be major inconveniences, there are other, more frightening types of trojan horses. These are oftentimes called keyloggers. Keyloggers record every keystroke you make on your computer while you are online. These nasty programs keep track of every e-mail you write and password you type. They then send the information back to their hacker to compile and sell or use for their own purposes.
Avoiding Trojan Horses
There are several simple steps you can take to avoid being infected with a trojan horse. First and foremost, never download something that doesn’t appear to be from a legitimate source. And if you don’t know the source, proceed with caution.Also, don’t click on popups. Period. They are nothing but trouble. If you are getting popups, there is a good chance you already have some kind of trojan horse. When you click on one, you may just be inviting more trojan horses to make a home in your system.
The other vital step you should take when fighting trojan horses is to get antispyware software. This software will detect and wipe out any existing trojan horses, as well as prevent you from getting any more in the future.
There are tons of options when it comes to antispyware software, so make sure to do you homework before committing to one. The information you are protecting is incredibly important and deserves the best defense against trojan horses.
Keep these things in mind next time you are surfing the internet.
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- Jun 29 2008
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Studying a spyware review is necessary for every person who owns or uses a computer. While some computers are less susceptible than others, a spyware review is pertinent to everyone. In particular, Macintosh computers tend to be far less likely to get spyware than other operating systems. This is because spyware is written for the masses, and fewer people own Macs.
Understanding the Different Kinds of Spyware
Any spyware review should include a description of the different types of spyware that are out there. The terms spyware, malware, and adware are sometimes used interchangeably to describe spyware. Adware usually applies directly to the type of spyware that floods your computer with popup advertisements. Thus the name, adware, advertisement+software.
Sub categories of spyware continue to materialize as hackers get better at tricking computer users. One of those types of spyware is called a rootkit. Rootkits help hackers gain access to your computer without your knowledge. It provides them a backdoor in order to take control of your system.
The worst type of spyware that is mentioned in any spyware review are keyloggers. This nasty kind of spyware doesn’t necessarily hijack your computer to make it unusable. Instead it lurks silently, running in the background collecting your personal information. Every time you hit a key, the keylogger records it. That includes credit card numbers and other important personal and financial information.
Anti Spyware Software Review
While prevention is always the best route to take, many people don’t think of getting antispyware software until they have a problem. With the hundreds of different antispyware programs available, it is important to do your homework before choosing one. Antispyware reviews are offered all over the Internet. They highlight the best features of each program, as well as their effectiveness.
The following are things to look for when reading an anti spyware review:
* What percent of the spyware does the program catch? There are many antispyware reviews that have achieved their rankings based upon rigorous testing of the programs. Be aware that some programs only detect a small percentage of the spyware on any given computer. While some is better than none, why not purchase a superior program?
* Does the program detect current spyware and catch new, incoming spyware? This also means you’ll want a program that provides downloadable updates to keep you ahead of the ever changing spyware scene. With new types of spyware being created every day, you will want a program that protects you not just now, but also in the future.
* What type of scanning capabilities does the program have? Most antispyware reviews will mention the type of scanning each program does. The best ones are able to perform both scheduled and custom scans.
As hackers become more and more skilled at creating spyware, the antispyware industry will be forced to adapt. Regardless of the current state of your computer, it is always a good idea to have some type of antispyware software running at all times. Not only will this relieve potentially huge hassles in the future, it will also protect your very important information.
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- Jun 29 2008
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If you own a computer that connects to the Internet, you should also own a spyware blocker. With the increasing threat of spyware has come the spyware blocker industry. For a small price, spyware blockers offer protection against harmful spyware of all shapes and sizes.
How do I know if I have Spyware?
The short answer is: it is impossible for the naked eye to always detect spyware. The spyware known as keyloggers actually operate secretly, without your knowledge. These malicious bugs sit around waiting for you to type in important information such as bank account and social security numbers. The recorded data is then sent back to the hacker. There’s no telling where the information goes from there. This is one of the fastest growing methods of identity theft.
Other spyware is a bit more obvious. Symptoms include:
* Your Internet browser has taken on a life of it’s own. It appears to be operated remotely, taking you to pages without your direction.
* The computer sometimes gets flooded with popups. Five new popups appear for every one you close.
* Your homepage changes on its own.
* Strange toolbars keep showing up. This sometimes includes multiple toolbars appearing simultaneously. Perhaps you even purposely downloaded one of them.
* Some of the keys on the keyboard stop working. This often plagues the “tab” key.
* You receive random error messages. These messages can even appear to be from the operating system or system administrator.
* The computer is so slow it has almost been rendered unusable.
Many computer users find themselves paying big bucks to get these problems fixed by computer repair technicians. It turns out that a simple spyware blocker can do the same thing for a fraction of the cost.
Which Spyware Blocker to Choose
So you searched for “spyware blocker” online and it came up with ten million options. How is the computer layperson supposed to know which one to choose? Keep in mind the following features in your quest to decide upon a spyware blocker:
* The first thing to look for in a spyware blocker is its rate of detection. We all know 100% is better than 70%. Choose the spyware blocker that guarantees 100%.
* Not only should the spyware blocker detect 100% of the spyware on your computer, it should also clean 100% of it out of the system.
* The spyware blocker should also prevent new spyware from entering the pc through an extensive system of guards.
* One way to figure out whether the spyware blocker offers decent prevention is if it has regular updates to combat newly created spyware. An update of the spyware database should occur at least once every day.
* The spyware blocker should be easy to install and have customer service available if you run into any bumps in the road.
* Look for a spyware blocker that shows proven results. This means testimonials from real customers and reviews from noteworthy sources.
Sifting through the many spyware blocker programs can seem tedious, but it is well worth the time spent. An effective spyware blocker will guard both you and your computer against being invaded by a hacker.
If you’re lookaing for a spyware detector and spyware blocker in one I recommend downloading SpyZooka and running a free scan right now to find out what might be on your pc. SpyZooka is the only antispyware software to guarantee 100% spyware removal.
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- Jun 28 2008
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When it comes to spyware, prevention is always the best medicine. Taking steps to keep your computer free of any and all kinds of spyware in the first place will save you loads of time and money down the road.
There are a number of ways to protect yourself from getting spyware, however none are 100% effective. Avoiding pop-ups and questionable websites are two of the smartest moves you can make. It is also a good idea to be cautious when downloading anything, especially freeware and files from file sharing sites. This has especially been a problem with certain music-sharing websites.
Finally, deleting all spam can help you wage war against spyware. Even if an email appears legitimate upon first glance, always make sure it is from who they say it is from before clicking on any links or giving away personal information.
For most computer users, however, spyware becomes an issue after it has already plagued a computer. And for most, it’s only a matter of time before you end up with spyware. Very few are immune.
Those with Macintoshes and non-Windows operating systems are far less likely to get spyware. This is because hackers write the spyware for the most commonly used types of computers and operating systems. Regardless of the type of computer you own, and even if you have not yet detected spyware in your system, you may very well have it.
How to Detect Spyware
It doesn’t take a computer wizard to detect spyware in many cases. A crippling number of pop-ups or a disturbingly slow system are two telltale signs you may have spyware. The best way to detect spyware, however, is with the use of antispyware software.
Antispyware software detects spyware and cleans it out of your system. A good program will also prevent future outbreaks of spyware on your computer.
If you are serious about figuring out a way to detect spyware on your computer, you need to do your homework. There are so many antispyware programs on the market, it can make your head spin. With a little research, though, you’ll be able to choose an effective program and successfully detect spyware on your computer.
What to Look for in AntiSpyware Software
There are plenty of antispyware software programs out there. Some reviews even suggest you use two or three programs just to ensure you detect all spyware on your system. A good program will do most of the work on its own. Here are some key features to look for when shopping for antispyware software:
* The program should promise to detect spyware 100% of the time or give you a free update within 24 hours that will.
* A good program will not only detect spyware, it will also prevent it. Cleaning out your system is great, but it will be done in vain if new spyware shows up on your computer the very next day. You want to not only clean out the current system, you want to protect your computer’s future.
* The company selling the antispyware software should offer convenient customer service. This means not only a real person available to walk you through any problems, but also automatic updates to combat new spyware that is introduced into cyberspace.
If you are vigilant in detecting spyware and preventing spyware, you will have a faster computer as well as peace of mind that your personal information isn’t being hoarded by hackers. A little time spent up front to ensure your security will pay off ten-fold in the future.
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- Jun 27 2008
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Installing a spyware detector, or anti-virus software, is like putting a dead bolt on your front door and a security system in your house. Your personal belongings and information are important to you and you want to protect them. Spyware detectors allow you to do just that.
To some, the word spyware conjures images of pop-up ads and annoyingly slow Internet connections. To others, it brings up experiences of identity theft and a complete invasion of personal privacy. Spyware is a serious matter that computer users must not ignore.
How Spyware Works
Spyware detectors have been made necessary by hackers who misuse the Internet as a tool to invade other people’s personal privacy. Spyware hides in waiting by attaching itself to other downloadable items. Perhaps by downloading a new desktop wallpaper, you’ve unknowingly infected your computer with spyware. Or maybe you just opened up a mysterious piece of spam email, and now you are suddenly being tracked by spyware.
While some spyware proves to be simply an annoyance, other types can be dangerous. Keyloggers, one form of spyware, record every keystroke you make. This means that it has the ability to log every password and email you write. It then sends the information back to the hacker to use as he or she chooses. The result is usually quite negative.
Deciding Which Spyware Detector is Best
There are many spyware detectors on the market. Be sure to research them before making a decision. And be careful when it comes to the pop-up spyware detector advertisements. Those are sometimes spyware themselves.
With the many spyware detector choices out there, it can be confusing when deciding which one to choose. First, look for a spyware detector that is going to be easy to use. It shouldn’t be something that requires constant maintenance. Good spyware detectors work behind the scenes 24/7 to detect and eradicate spyware embedded in your computer.
Ensure that the spyware protector you purchase offers 100% removal of spyware. Most spyware detectors won’t make you any guarantees about removing your spyware.
Another rule of thumb when shopping for a spyware protector is to simply use good old common sense. Is the company a part of the Better Business Bureau? Do they appear to be running a legitimate operation? Do they have positive reviews from trusted sources? How about a professional-looking website and easy to contact, available customer service?
Just like with a home security system, you want to make sure you are purchasing a quality product that is going to protect you and your family. Spyware protectors prove to be a small investment for such an important function. Can you really place a price tag on the safety and security of your family’s personal information?
It’s impossible to be able to keep track of the many functions for which you use your computer. Even the most cautious computer user can find him or herself caught in a web of spyware. Act before it becomes a bigger problem by installing a spyware detector and you’ll be able to rest easy that your personal information is safe and sound.
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- Jun 27 2008
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It happens to everyone at least once. Since the invention of the internet hackers have been trying to figure out how to do things they shouldn’t. One of the things they love to do is infect computers with viruses. The purpose is not always the same but making other people’s computers sick is something that hackers love to do and one of the main reasons is that sick computers don’t hack up germs, they cough out valuable information that hackers use to scam money from innocent people. It isn’t all bad news though, just like robbers have cops to deal with hackers have the anti-virus and anti-spyware programs to deal with and one of the most useful of these imperative tools is the removal tool.
Spyware removal tools are not cure-alls and they are not protection against spyware and viruses, they just help remove these malicious files from your computer. Many people think that spyware or virus protection programs are just another way for big software companies to make more money but the reality is that those programs are very important in ensuring your protection from serious harm. Sure, having some of your files corrupted, losing all of the stuff you have saved on your computer or even having to pay for some minor repairs might seem like insignificant drawbacks but what about having your identity stolen? Every year billions of dollars are lost to hackers that use worms, spyware and other viruses to get into personal and business computers and networks to steal valuable information.
Once upon a time if you got infected with a virus you had to go and remove the virus yourself. What this usually meant was hours of trying to find every single infected file, and if it was too difficult to make sure all infected files were gone, which was usually the case, then you had to reboot the computer and lose everything that didn’t fit onto zip drives, DVDs and rewriteable CDs. Spyware removal tools make it so that you just have to install or download a removal tool and have it do all the work for you. There are many advantages to these removal tools. For one they make your life a lot easier, you don’t even have to sit there and watch it work but on top of it all some spyware software includes removal tools that are able to remove more than just a few different viruses or worms. With more than 200 new viruses being invented each month, this just means that in the case that you did get infected, you no longer need to lose sleep, work, class or valuable video game or TV watching time.
The most important thing that you need to remember is that spyware removal tools are not a cure-all against viruses or spyware. It is imperative that you have some virus/spyware protection software that provides you with as many different possible forms of scanning for and removing malicious bugs from your computer. It may happen to all of us at least once, but it should not happen any more than that, the hackers brought against themselves a legion of anti-virus and anti-spyware software that aid against these billion dollar thieves. Make sure you go out and buy yourself some good protection and make sure that whatever program you decide on has a spyware removal tool.
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- Jun 25 2008
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Many types of worms, spyware, and viruses act the same when they infect a computer. The w32 worm causes some of the same problems as other malware. The difference is the rate at which it is spreading. The w32 worm, which functions under a number of different aliases, is the newest threat on the Internet and it’s spreading like wildfire.
What W32 Can Do
Every worm is harmful to your computer. The w32 worm is particularly harmful for the following reasons:* It can multiply quickly. While some types of malware will simply infect one single computer, w32 propagates in order to invade countless systems.
* Microsoft products are particularly susceptible to w32. This is a big problem because the majority of computers use Microsoft programs.
* w32 has found a special niche in the business world. This is likely because it is relatively easy to infect a number of computers within a company because they are all linked on the same network.
* The w32 starts whenever the computer is rebooted. This means you may unknowingly be prompting the w32 worm to go to work just by turning on your computer.
* The w32 worm opens up a backdoor to the systems it infects. This backdoor allows w32 to hijack the computer and steal any information it so pleases. This is a problem for both computer performance and personal identity and security.
* w32 messes with Internet Explorer in a big way. It can make using the browser a big pain in the microchip.
Symptoms of w32 Infection
While some computers will show obvious signs of w32 infection, other do not. This can make it rather difficult to detect w32 in certain instances. Look for the following changes in your computer if you suspect you might have w32:* A random “system shutdown” error message. This error message may or may not be legitimate. Regardless, many computers that have been infected by w32 have received that message.
* Unusual changes in Internet Explorer. The w32 worm has the ability to change your homepage. Never ignore such changes, it may mean you have w32 on your system.
* A slower system. If you computer has become noticeably slower or completely unresponsive, w32 may be the culprit. Don’t assume a slow computer means that you have too many files stored or the machine is old. It is more likely that you have been infected with some type of malware, perhaps w32.
W32 Removal
There are several measures that can be taken to eradicate w32 from your computer, as well as prevent future infections. Take note of the following steps in your quest to slay the w32 worm:
* Install a firewall on your computer. This can help harmful programs from entering the system in the first place.* Make sure to update Microsoft programs. Your computer should automatically offer updates. These updates are reconfigured versions of the original programs meant to fill holes in security. Since the w32 worm is relatively new, you should make those updates immediately.
* Antispyware software. The software that is generally referred to as “antispyware” usually combats all types of malware, viruses, and worms. Do your homework and choose a good-quality program.
The w32 worm is a big threat to all computers, whether they are a part of a big business network or a single personal computer. If you are connected to the Internet, you are vulnerable. Take the aforementioned precautions to steer clear of the malicious w32 worm.
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- Jun 24 2008
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Are you seeing some new “anti-spyware” on your PC or laptop, called XP Defender (or Advanced XP Defender)? It’s not the latest anti-virus or provided by Windows (which is just called Windows Defender). It’s actually a malicious piece of rogue anti spyware that’s not out to help you at all.
How is XP Defender installed?
Through Zlob Trojan, Vundo Trojan, and browser security loopholes. It may be bundled with other software–usually also malicious. It will download itself if you visit AdvancedXPDefender.com, so you definitely don’t need to go there!
What will XP Defender do?
It will do a variety of things. First off, it will give you any number of irritating, resource-eating pop-ups.
More insidiously, it will “scan” your computer and give you misleading results. It will show false positives, saying that you have spyware and malware that you don’t, while simultaneously ignoring many real viruses, adware, etc.
Why does it do this? Like other forms of fake and rogue anti-spyware, XP Defender tries to convince you that your system is absolutely infested with all types of malware. It does this so that it can sell you an expensive license to the “full” version of its product.
And just like any rogue anti-spyware, you shouldn’t go in for it. In fact, you should never buy the “licensed” version to any software that installed itself without your permission. So if you ever have anyone install any anti-virus, anti-spyware, or anti-adware programs on your computer, make sure they leave a text file of just exactly what they installed.
Anything that installed itself and then expects you to buy it, is just bad news for you, you computer, and your bank account. There’s a reason it’s called rogue anti-spyware!
XP Defender is a resource-eater. All the effort it takes to show you annoying pop-ups and false security reports, easts up your system resources. It harasses you with what you don’t need, while making it more difficult to do the things you do need.
Finally, XP Defender will take your money. It’s been mentioned in passing, but needs to be stated straight-out. The program will try to get you to buy a rather expensive license to the “full” version. How much good will this full version do you? You’re welcome to try it and see, if you want–but by now, you probably no what to expect from software that installed itself without your permission.
How can I get rid of XP Defender?
Using the standard Windows uninstall isn’t likely to help. Even if it does work, programs like this are notorious for re-installing themselves. Not to mention, an uninstall won’t stop this kind of program from floating all over the world wide web, just waiting to find new host computers.
The best way to protect against this kind of program is to have good anti-spyware that updates its definitions regularly. And once you’ve removed any malicious software, make sure you have a good firewall, are careful what you download, and run anti-virus checks on a regular and frequent basis.
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