Spyware is one of the fastest-growing internet threats. According to the National Cyber Security Alliance, spyware infects more than 90% of all PCs today. These unobtrusive, malicious programs are designed to silently bypass firewalls and anti-virus software without the user\u2019s knowledge. Once embedded in a computer, it can wreak havoc on the system\u2019s performance while gathering your personal information. Fortunately, unlike viruses and worms, spyware programs do not usually self-replicate. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Where does it come from?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Typically, spyware 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\u2019s knowledge. The user downloads the program to their computer. Once downloaded, the spyware program goes to work collecting data for the spyware author\u2019s personal use or to sell to a third-party. Beware of many P2P file-sharing programs. They are notorious for downloads that posses spyware programs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The user of a downloadable program should pay extra attention to the accompanying licensing agreement. Often 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 \u201copt-out\u201d boxes that the user can click to stop the spyware from being included in the download. Be sure to review the document before signing off on the download.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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 not to allow websites to start any unwanted downloads. That is why the user has to initiate a download by clicking on a link. These links can prove 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 commence. Newer versions of Internet Explorer are now making this spyware pathway a little more difficult.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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 force the installation of the spyware program.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What can spyware programs do?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Spyware Examples<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n 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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n CoolWebSearch<\/a><\/strong>, a group of programs, that install through \u201choles\u201d found in Internet Explorer. These programs direct traffic to advertisements on Web sites including coolwebsearch.com<\/em>. This spyware nuisance displays pop-up ads, rewrites search engine<\/a> results, and alters the computer host file to direct the Domain Name System (DNS) to lookup preselected sites. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Internet Optimizer<\/a> (<\/strong>a\/k\/a DyFuCa)<\/strong>, 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 180 Solutions<\/a><\/strong> reports extensive information to advertisers about the Web sites which you visit. It also alters HTTP requests for affiliate<\/a> advertisements linked from a Web site. Therefore the 180 Solutions Company makes an unearned profit off of the click through advertisements they\u2019ve altered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n HuntBar<\/a> <\/strong>(a\/k\/a WinTools) or Adware.Websearch<\/a><\/strong>, is distributed by Traffic Syndicate<\/a> and is installed by ActiveX drive-by downloading at affiliate websites or by advertisements displayed by other spyware programs. It\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n How can I prevent spyware?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n There are a couple things you can do to prevent spyware from infecting your computer system. First, invest in a reliable commercial anti-spyware program. There are several currently on the market including stand alone software packages such as Lavasoft\u2019s Ad-Aware or Windows Antispyware. Other 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 can 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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/strong>Spyware programs can accomplish a multitude of malicious tasks. Some of their deeds are simply annoying for the user; others can become downright aggressive in nature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Spyware can:<\/p>\n\n\n\n