How to Protect Your Computer From Spyware?
February 1, 2009 by Spyware Guru Nik
It is unfortunate that most of computer users are not aware of what a spyware can do. Most of them don’t even realize that the spyware lurks in the background within the shadows of their computer’s hard drives.
The question is, what is exactly is spyware? This article will finally clarify what spyware is and tips you can use to protect yourself from spyware in the future.
Spyware are computer programs that exist on your computer’s hard drive. They come in different types. Some spyware creep in the shadows of your hard drive, some are watching your browser and taking notes of websites that you visit.
Most of the time, it then communicates to other parties by using your internet access. Other spyware watch and take note of your keystrokes whenever you visit a financial services website. These are also known as “Keyloggers.” Keyloggers are a type of spyware that sends sensitive financial information including your username and password to other parties across the internet.
So, how does spyware get installed in your computer?
The spyware is downloaded through the internet and it occurs when a user knowingly downloads another piece of software and the spyware is attached to that application. Spyware can also occur through download by visiting websites.
Known as “drive by’s,” these downloads happen automatically without the user’s permission once a user has simply visited a particular website.
Is Spyware Dangerous?
All spyware is not necessarily dangerous. However,it does represent a risk because of the damage it is capable of doing.
For example, the spyware that watches your keystrokes when you visit financial websites and then communicates this data to other unknown parties exposes you and your financial livelihood to risk.
These other parties can then potentially access your bank, investment and loan accounts online without your knowledge or permission, wreaking havoc. Other types of spyware can actually gain control of your computer and distribute that control to other parties. As a result, unknown parties can potentially gain access to any sensitive data on your hard drive.
How to Protect Your Computer From Spyware?
The most effective way to protect you and your computer from spyware is to use a computer program that is designed specifically to identify and get rid of such bugs.
Such programs include:
ParetoLogic AntiSpyware - Built for those who enjoy knowing that they have complete control over the security of their PC, ParetoLogic Anti-Spyware delivers Active Protection in the form of real-time blocking. Sleek performance, an elegant user interface, and ease of use wrap around powerful technology and exclusive functionality. Going beyond simple detect and remove capabilities, ParetoLogic Anti-Spyware puts the power in your hands to take a pro-active stance against the intrusive and malicious spyware that threaten your PC and privacy.
For a Free Download, click here.
PC Tools Spyware Doctor - Award-winning spyware protection to secure your PC against privacy and tracking threats. Spyware Doctor is a top-rated malware and spyware removal utility that detects, removes and protects your PC from thousands of potential spyware, adware, trojans, keyloggers, spybots and tracking threats.
For a Free Download, click here.
ParetoLogic XoftSpy - Detects and removes all the spyware trying to install on your PC. Key features include complete PC scanning, including running processes, registry entries, files & folders; detects and removes spyware, adware, pop-up generators, keyloggers, Trojans, browser hijackers & malware; automatic definition & feature updates; comprehensive customer technical support; protects against identity theft and credit card fraud.
For a Free Download, Click here.
Webroot Spy Sweeper - Quickly provides maximum protection with minimal interaction. Spy Sweeper gives you 360 degrees of protection. Powerful Smart Shields offer real-time protection by blocking known & emerging spyware threats as you browse - before they ever reach your computer and personal information. If your PC is already infected, Spy Sweeper’s advanced discovery methods locate and completely destroy malicious spyware that hides within your PC - even spyware that hides using rootkit technology.
For a Free Download, Click here.
If you have never scanned your system, there is a good chance that you have a spyware program lurking on your hard drive. It could be relatively benign, content to simply exist.
Or, it could be maliciously communicating your sensitive data to outside parties. Use a dedicated spyware removal program such as Paretologic AntiSpyware, PC Tools Spyware Doctor, Paretologic Xoftspy, and Webroot Spy Sweeper to search and destroy these bugs before they can cause any significant damage to your computer or personal financial details.
