What’s Lurking on Your PC?

The next time you log on to your online banking Web site, take a moment to consider this: someone may be spying on you! Spyware programs take many forms including pop-up ad generators to keystroke loggers, known as “keyloggers.” Some spyware programs analyze your online searches so that they can then send you targeted advertisements while others secretly record everything that you type in hopes of discovering your financial secrets such as account numbers and passwords. Either way, eliminating and preventing spyware is essential.

How Spyware Programs Get on Your Computer

Spyware programs are installed without your knowledge, often after downloading seemingly useful programs. However, even if you do not download programs off of the Internet, spyware can infiltrate your system simply by visiting a malicious Web site! This type of invasion is known as a “driveby download.” Another way that spyware programs invade is through other spyware programs; a notorious type of spyware called a “downloading Trojan” opens a door and invites other spyware programs into your computer – all without your knowledge.

In addition to stealth infiltrations, some spyware arrives due to sheer trickery. For example, a popup window may appear on your screen telling you that your computer has a security problem and to “click here” to fix it. Don’t be fooled! If you click the popup window, even the red X for exiting, you will launch the malicious code. Instead, disconnect your computer from the Internet immediately and reboot your PC - all without clicking the popup warning in any way.

Spyware Side Effects

Not only does spyware collect personal and private information about you, it reports this information to a third party who may then distribute it elsewhere. While this is potentially disastrous to your identity and finances, it also wreaks havoc on your computer’s performance. Most computers infected with spyware have dozens of separate spyware programs running silently in the background. Imagine each of these programs taking up processor power and memory. Now imagine each of these nasty little programs using your Internet connection to upload data to a remote hacker or launch “denial of service” attacks on targeted Web sites or networks. Slow PC performance is often one of the first clues that you may have a spyware problem.

Eliminating Spyware

Eliminating spyware involves running an antispyware scan on your entire computer with a reputable computer security product. While some anti-virus programs also take care of spyware, not all do. Running plain anti-virus tools is not enough to protect your computer from these types of threats. Look for an antispyware program that is updated frequently with the latest defenses. Before you make your decision, research the company offering the product to be sure that it is reputable. Pay attention to the name of the product as many imposters name their malicious programs with names that sound remarkably similar to well known computer security products. For example, Windefender, a notorious malware program, is not the same thing as Microsoft’s Windows Defender, but their names do sound similar.

Preventing Spyware

Preventing spyware is preferable to finding it after the fact as a great deal of damage can occur between the initial infection and the scan. Look for real-time blocking and start practicing safe computing. Be careful what you download and be on the lookout for imposters.