Spyware

Spyware is any program that gathers personal information about computer users without their consent or knowledge.

Techniques use

Keylogger is one of techniques that Spyware employ to collect your personal information secretly. These kinds of Spyware record every keystroke that the computer users enter to their PC. The main purpose to steal user Ids, password or credit numbers and uses to commit fraud crime. Other Spyware include scanning the history of user browser or install a cookie to track users surfing activities and send this information to advertising agencies to do targeted advertising or study Internet user behaviour. Other places that Spyware is lurking are Messengers and P2P file sharing software.

Difference between spyware and virus

Spyware and Virus are both malicious program but there is a different. Spyware do not usually self-replicate or spread from one computer to another one as same way as a computer virus. Instead, Spyware gets on a system by deceiving the user or through known security flaws in software. Most Spyware program is installed without user being aware. They bundle with shareware, other download software or music CDs, once users download and install, they got it. Other Spyware infect computers through known security holes in the Web browser (especially Internet Explorer). When users visit a ‘bad’ web site, the web site may contain code, which attacks the browser and forces the download and installation of Spyware without user known it.

The danger of Spyware

Once Spyware get into your computer, it is difficult to get rid. Even you know where is the Spyware program, you cannot simply delete it. If you delete it, other program may not work proper. You need Spyware removal program or Anti-spyware software to remove existing Spyware in the computers. These products can prevent further installation of Spyware.

The tools to use

There are several of products that protect or prevent Spyware, one of highest rated is Spyware Doctor from PC Tools.

Safe computer tips

Do not click on links offering free stuffs like competitions, prize draws, free software or movie etc.

The first step in protecting your computer against Spyware is to read the end-user license agreement (EULA) thoroughly before installing any software.

If you use Internet explorer as web browser, please disable the active-x in your Internet explorer because Internet explorer user is a prime target for spyware and other malicious programs. You can switch to another browser - mozilla firefox, it is much secure.

If you are using Outlook as your e-mail client, please disable the disable HTML in Outlook. Outlook is the most highly targeted software for Spyware, spreading worms and most types of virus. Switch to another e-mail client, mozilla thunderbird, it is better.

For Broadband or Highspeed users, install a personal firewall. All computers connected to the Internet today should have firewall software installed - regardless of your connection speed. You can get free personal firewall from ZoneLabs, call Zone alarm.

Make sure your Anti-Spyware software installed and updated.