Why Do I Feel Like Somebody’s Watching Me
Where does it come from?
Spyware, typically, originates in three ways. The first and most common way is when the user installs it. In this scenario, spyware is embedded, attached, or bundled with a freeware or shareware program without the user’s knowledge. The user downloads the program to their computer, and the spyware program goes to work collecting data for the spyware author’s personal use, or to sell to a third-party. Beware of many P2P file-sharing programs, because they are notorious for downloads that posses spyware programs.
The user of a downloadable program should pay extra attention to the accompanying licensing agreement. Usually, the software publisher will warn the user that a spyware program will be installed along with the requested program. Unfortunately, we do not always take the time to read the fine print. Some agreements may provide special “opt-out” boxes that the user can click to stop the spyware from being included in the download. Be sure to review the document before buying into the download.
Another way that spyware can access your computer is by tricking you into manipulating the security features designed to prevent any unwanted installations. The Internet Explorer Web browser was designed to prohibit websites from starting any unwanted downloads. This is why the user has to initiate a download by clicking on a link. But, these links can be deceptive. For example, a pop-up modeled after a standard Windows dialog box, may appear on your screen. The message may ask you if you would like to optimize your internet access. It provides “yes” or “no” answer buttons, but, no matter which button you push, a download containing the spyware program will start. Newer versions of Internet Explorer are now making this spyware pathway a little more difficult. computer virus
Finally, some spyware applications infect a system by attacking security holes in the Web browser, or other software. When the user navigates a webpage controlled by a spyware author, the page contains code designed to attack the browser, and forces the installation of the spyware program.
What can spyware programs do?
Spyware programs can accomplish many malicious tasks. Some of their deeds are simply annoying for the user; others can become aggressive.
Spyware can:
1.Monitor your keystrokes for reporting purposes.
2.Scan files located on your hard drive.
3.Snoop through applications on our desktop.
4.Install other spyware programs into your computer.
5.Read your cookies.
6.Steal credit card numbers, passwords, and other personal information.
7.Change the default settings on your home page web browser.
8.Mutate into a second generation of spyware, making it more difficult to eradicate.
9.Cause your computer to run slow.
10.Deliver annoying popup advertisements.
11.Add advertising links to web pages that the author does not get paid. Instead, payment is directed to the spyware programmer that changed the original affiliate’s settings.
12.Provide the user with no uninstall option and places itself in unexpected and hidden areas in your computer, making it difficult to remove.
Spyware Examples
Here are a few examples of commonly seen spyware programs. Please note that while researchers will often give names to spyware programs, they may not match the names the spyware-writers use.
CoolWebSearch, a group of programs, that install through “holes” found in Internet Explorer. These programs direct traffic to advertisements on Websites. This spyware nuisance displays pop-up ads, rewrites search engine results, and alters the computer host file to direct the Domain Name System (DNS) to lookup preselected sites.
Internet Optimizer (a/k/a DyFuCa), likes to redirect Internet Explorer error pages to advertisements. When the user follows the broken link or enters an erroneous URL, a page of advertisements pop up.
180 Solutions reports extensive information to advertisers about the Websites you visit. It also alters HTTP requests for affiliate advertisements linked from a Web site, allowing the 180 Solutions Company to make unearned profits off of the click through advertisements they’ve altered.
HuntBar (a/k/a WinTools) or Adware.Websearch, is distributed by Traffic Syndicate and is installed by ActiveX drive-by downloading at affiliate websites or by advertisements displayed by other spyware programs. It’s a prime example of how spyware can install more spyware. These programs will add toolbars to Internet Explorer, track Web browsing behavior, and display advertisements.
How can I prevent spyware?
There are a couple things you can do to prevent spyware from infecting your computer. First, invest in a reliable commercial anti-spyware program. There are several currently on the market including stand alone software packages such as Lavasoft’s Ad-Aware or Windows Anti-spyware. Some options provide the anti-spyware software as part of an anti-virus package. This type of option is offered by companies such as Sophos, Symantec, and McAfee. Anti-spyware programs combat spyware by providing real-time protection, scanning, and removal of any found spyware software. As with most programs, update your anti-virus software frequently. freeware
As discussed, the Internet Explorer (IE) is often a contributor to the spyware problem, because spyware programs like to attach themselves to its functionality. Spyware likes to penetrate the IE’s weaknesses. Because of this, many users have switched to non-IE browsers. However, if you prefer to stick with Internet Explorer, be sure to update the security patches regularly, and only download programs from reputable sources. This will help reduce your chances of a spyware infiltration.
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And, when all else fails?
Finally, if your computer has been infected with a large number of spyware programs, the only solution you may have is to back up your data, and perform a complete reinstall of the operating system.
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