Spyware is a relatively new issue, but increasingly pervasive and persistent. In fact, some studies show that 88% of computers harbor some kind of unwanted program in this category. So what is spyware? It’s a general term used for software that performs certain behaviors such as advertising (known as adware) collecting personal information, or changing the configuration of your computer, generally without appropriately obtaining your consent. Like worms and viruses, spyware is “malware”, but it doesn’t behave like a typical virus or worm. They don’t usually do actual damage to your computer, other than wrecking its performance, and they don’t spread themselves using your address book.

You might have spyware or other unwanted software on your computer if see pop-up advertising - even when you are not on the web, your default web page changes without your consent, new toolbars appear and you can’t get rid of it, and your computer slows down dramatically or crashes.

 

How it happens

Spyware usually installs on your computer covertly by using one of two methods:

  • Tricking you into clicking a link that installs it. Links to spyware can be deceptive. For example, a Web site that’s trying to push spyware onto your computer might open a window that looks like a Windows dialog box, and then trick you by installing when you click a Cancel button to close the dialog box. Sometimes, spyware pushers will put a fake title bar in an empty window, and then install spyware when you try closing the window.
  • Installing freeware that includes it. For example, you might install a free file-sharing program that surreptitiously installs spyware on your computer. File-sharing programs can be a major conveyor of adware.

Once installed, spyware can transmit your personal information and download advertisements 24 hours a day. It can also hijack your browser settings, such as your home page or search page.

Prevent unwanted installation

Companies pushing adware and spyware are relying on two things: your desire for free software and your gullibility. Follow these guidelines and you’ll have fewer problems:

  • Make sure the programs you install don’t contain adware. Many freeware programs do include adware. It’s how the publishers make their money. If you’re not sure, read the license agreement carefully (these are usually shown directly or through links as part of the installation process). Also, check the publisher’s Web site very carefully. If you’re still not sure, use your favorite search engine for the name of the program and the keywords adware or spyware. If you don’t find any postings about it, then you’re probably OK.
  • Install a pop-up blocker to prevent spyware pop-up windows. Much spyware installs after you click a deceptive link in a pop-up browser window. Install a pop-up blocker, and you won’t even be tempted to click those links. For Windows XP users, Service Pack 2 includes a free pop-up blocker for Internet Explorer, and Google and MSN do as well.
  • Don’t unwittingly install adware or software. If you do click what seems like an innocuous link, and then you see a dialog box similar to the one shown in Figure 1, don’t click the Yes button to install the software. In this example, the user is expecting to install a program from Microsoft, so it’s safe. If in doubt, however, do not proceed. This dialog box is your last line of defense, and you should only install programs from the Internet that you chose to install. This is akin to giving someone your credit card number who calls you at home. It’s a different story if you called them. Installing Windows XP SP 2 will also provide some help by suppressing unsolicited downloads of ActiveX controls (a popular vehicle for spyware).

Spyware scanners and some virus scanners with spyware signatures can help combat spyware. However, the best strategy is to be discriminating about what you choose to download and install.

Protect against spyware

Without help, you have no way to prevent spyware. Older anti-virus programs don’t prevent adware since they didn’t consider them viruses or worms. Some makers of spyware and other unwanted software might even disguise their programs as anti-spyware tools. The issue has become sophisticated enough that you really need to have an anti-spyware product installed on your machine, and kept up to date.

The following products are available, for free, and you can always check the Spyware Protection and Removal guide for additional advice:

How to install Microsoft Windows AntiSpyware (Beta)

Microsoft Windows AntiSpyware (Beta) is a new security technology that helps protect you from spyware and other unwanted software. You can manually scan your computer for spyware or schedule the program to perform a scan automatically on a regular basis at any time.

Once you install Windows AntiSpyware, you’ll benefit from real-time protection which can block spyware or other unwanted software before it’s installed. Find out how to install and set up Microsoft Windows AntiSpyware (Beta).

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