As with computer viruses, spyware can be broken down into several different categories. Most users are familiar with "adware" a term that refers to software that serves ads that are annoying. But there are a number of other spyware variants you should be aware of.
To begin with it is important to have a clear definition of spyware. This will also help us understand why the term is often used to encompass a number of different variants. Spyware is a program, usually installed without your knowledge, which records what you do on your computer and then shares with its creator.
Spyware programs that collect information may vary from Web sites you visit to log-in and password for your online banking site. Sharing your personal information with third parties is why the spyware in its purest form is labeled as a dangerous threat and clearly is a major privacy problem.
Adware is a term commonly used most of the second. Adware is designed to display ads that are relevant to you, generally based on your surfing habits, to generate Pay-Per-Click advertising revenue or sales through affiliate links. Adware is often bundled with free software by the developer instead of charging rates.
Dangerous nature of adware can vary enormously. On one scale, it does not interfere with advertisements displayed in a window in a free program that you have downloaded. When the program is not running, your ad is not displayed. At the other end of the scale, users can find their desktop overwhelmed as adware program spews out a few pop up ads with a very aggressive way. While it is possible to believe the former is not transmitting personal data to third parties, it is difficult to expect that they would not.
Adware issue is further complicated by the marketing companies who do not like their software labeled "spyware." Marketing companies generate millions of dollars of revenue through client often recognized brand name. So to avoid the legal problems of security companies refer to the software as PUPs (potentially unwanted program).
Browser hijackers are other forms of aggressive spyware. They attacked the browser settings such important sites that load your default browser when you start the program. Hackers redirect you to sites that generate revenue for them as the site "Search the Web Cool" Russia. Browser hijackers may also enter the site to your bookmarks. They can also cause your browser to crash and stop working altogether and are usually difficult to remove.
Key loggers capture all your key strokes into a DLL file that the creator took. Software key loggers are often combined with a Trojan virus that gives access to your computer's creator.
Here are some tips and strategies to combat various types of spyware.
- Keep ALL Windows XP and your web browser (including Internet Explorer and FireFox) up to date with the latest patches.
- Install a reputable anti-spyware programs like Webroot Spy Sweeper or PC Tools Spyware Doctor. Run scans often and keep the definitions up to date.
- Install a reputable anti-virus program like Norton Anti-Virus or McAfee VirusScan. Run scans often and keep the definitions up to date.
- Install a firewall that manages both inbound and outbound connections. Top picks include a personal firewall software Zone Labs' s Zone Alarm and Norton Personal Firewall. Or buy a router with a hardware firewall.
- Avoid downloading free software programs, including screensavers and weather toolbar.
- Avoid out areas of high risk spyware on the internet including illegal music sharing sites, Peer-to-peer programs, free games download sites and adult sites.
To begin with it is important to have a clear definition of spyware. This will also help us understand why the term is often used to encompass a number of different variants. Spyware is a program, usually installed without your knowledge, which records what you do on your computer and then shares with its creator.
Spyware programs that collect information may vary from Web sites you visit to log-in and password for your online banking site. Sharing your personal information with third parties is why the spyware in its purest form is labeled as a dangerous threat and clearly is a major privacy problem.
Adware is a term commonly used most of the second. Adware is designed to display ads that are relevant to you, generally based on your surfing habits, to generate Pay-Per-Click advertising revenue or sales through affiliate links. Adware is often bundled with free software by the developer instead of charging rates.
Dangerous nature of adware can vary enormously. On one scale, it does not interfere with advertisements displayed in a window in a free program that you have downloaded. When the program is not running, your ad is not displayed. At the other end of the scale, users can find their desktop overwhelmed as adware program spews out a few pop up ads with a very aggressive way. While it is possible to believe the former is not transmitting personal data to third parties, it is difficult to expect that they would not.
Adware issue is further complicated by the marketing companies who do not like their software labeled "spyware." Marketing companies generate millions of dollars of revenue through client often recognized brand name. So to avoid the legal problems of security companies refer to the software as PUPs (potentially unwanted program).
Browser hijackers are other forms of aggressive spyware. They attacked the browser settings such important sites that load your default browser when you start the program. Hackers redirect you to sites that generate revenue for them as the site "Search the Web Cool" Russia. Browser hijackers may also enter the site to your bookmarks. They can also cause your browser to crash and stop working altogether and are usually difficult to remove.
Key loggers capture all your key strokes into a DLL file that the creator took. Software key loggers are often combined with a Trojan virus that gives access to your computer's creator.
Here are some tips and strategies to combat various types of spyware.
- Keep ALL Windows XP and your web browser (including Internet Explorer and FireFox) up to date with the latest patches.
- Install a reputable anti-spyware programs like Webroot Spy Sweeper or PC Tools Spyware Doctor. Run scans often and keep the definitions up to date.
- Install a reputable anti-virus program like Norton Anti-Virus or McAfee VirusScan. Run scans often and keep the definitions up to date.
- Install a firewall that manages both inbound and outbound connections. Top picks include a personal firewall software Zone Labs' s Zone Alarm and Norton Personal Firewall. Or buy a router with a hardware firewall.
- Avoid downloading free software programs, including screensavers and weather toolbar.
- Avoid out areas of high risk spyware on the internet including illegal music sharing sites, Peer-to-peer programs, free games download sites and adult sites.
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