spyware
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What is Spyware?
The term Spyware is used to describe a broad category of malicious software intended to intercept or take partial control of a computer's operation without the user's knowledge or permission.
While the term taken literally suggests software that secretly monitors the user, it has come to refer more broadly to software that subverts the computer's operation for the benefit of a third party.
Spyware differs from viruses and worms in that it does not usually self-replicate. Like many recent viruses, spyware is designed to exploit infected computers for commercial gain. Typical tactics furthering this goal include delivery of unsolicited pop-up advertisements; theft of personal information (including financial information such as credit card numbers); monitoring of Web-browsing activity for marketing purposes; or redirecting of HTTP browsing requests to advertising sites.
How can it affect my PC?
As well as the obvious security risks posed to a computer by Spyware, there are many other effects that can be equally undesirable.
Spyware can often cause a computer to run considerably slower than usual. As Spyware applications are often born of an idea to abuse or exploit a computer or user, it's doubtful that efficiency and speed of operation are high on a Spyware-programmer's priorities! The applications can use up system resources very quickly and greedily, leaving little overhead for day-to-day necessary applications to function. Furthermore, often if one Spyware application has made its way on to your computer, it's likely there are more – possibly spawned from the first.
This can cause considerable delay in logging on, switching applications and general use of a computer – in some cases an already hard-worked computer can be brought to a grinding halt by the addition of spyware.
How can I prevent spyware?
The first step towards protecting yourself and your network from spyware is to educate your users to avoid web content from suspicious sources. Spyware is often voluntarily installed by a user, the application masquerading as, for example 'Smiley Faces', web search toolbars or even weather forecasting! If it's not work-related or needed, don't install it!
Also, pay careful attention to error messages and popups – it is common to see popups that claim to be helpful advice, but under close inspection are actually web pages posing as, for example, a Windows error message, with clicking on them resulting in the installation of Spyware. If in doubt, click the Windows 'X' close window button at the very top-right of the window.
Keeping your operating system up to date is also critical in keeping Spyware at bay. Many Spyware applications take advantage of security holes in Windows and Internet Explorer. Windows Update supplies fixes and patches that plug these security holes.
Still, even the most cautious computer user can be affected by Spyware, and many of us even through day-to-day use can discover Spyware we didn't expect on our systems.
How can I identify and remove Spyware?
If you are, or you suspect that you are infected with Spyware, there are free tools available to help you remove the infection. These are detailed below.
It is worth noting, however, that in an attempt to stay ahead of the game, some Spyware groups have masqueraded their malicious software as a tool that removes malicious software. You cannot just Google for a Spyware removal tool any more, you need to make an educated choice.
Our recommendations are Lavasoft's Ad-Aware* and Spybot S&D (Search and Destroy).
*Do not confuse Ad-Aware with 'Ad-Ware' – Ad-Ware is a Spyware application.
If you are unsure and require help, please refer to Samarind's guides for help with the downloading, installation and operation of the recommended tools.
How can I keep Spyware off my PC?
The best defence against Spyware is either to buy an application that actively blocks spyware, similar to how an Antivirus application operates, or to maintain the practices mentioned earlier in this document:-
- Browse the Internet cautiously.
- Keep your computer up to date with Windows Update.
- Keep your Spyware-removal tool up to date.
- Perform regular scans of your system with your Spyware-removal tool.
Please refer to the following guides which explain how to download and apply Ad-Aware and Spybot software. (Please note - because they're full of helpful screen shots, these files are a little large. Please be patient when you're opening them.)
Don't forget that if you are a Samarind support customer you are entitled to free on-site training on all spyware issues. We will show you how to download and use the software and give you tips on how to avoid getting spyware in the first place! Please call to make an appointment.
If you are not a support customer but would like to book training please call Carly on 01244 288281.