Spyware: How Does it Get On Your Computer?

01/06/2009 

Spyware is everywhere. No matter where you look, computers that are running slowly, crashing, or have inboxes full of spam are probably loaded down with spyware. The information gathered by spyware can be used for many purposes. It can be used to steal identities, overload you with spam, or simply look in on your accounts. One in every 100 computers is currently infected with some form of malware or spyware. So how do so many people get infected? There are some methods that are more common than others.

Security Settings

If you do not set the security settings on your computer high enough, you automatically risk getting spyware on your computer. This includes having the right firewalls, antivirus and antispyware software on your computer. People often forget or disregard the importance of these software protections.

Downloading Files

When you download files that are malicious, you can often get more than you bargained for. Files that you may think are simple, easy to use programs can often contain spyware hidden in their code, or just be spyware themselves. Only download respectable, certified software programs to your computer. Freeware and shareware is more often a problem than anything else. Be aware of everything you download and the effect it might have on your computer.

ActiveX

Active X, the controller application that runs through Microsoft Windows and Internet Explorer can result in security holes in your software and the ability of spyware to infest your computer.

Pop Up Ads

Pop up ads are an immediate risk for your computer. They might ask you to make changes or upgrades to your security settings, resulting in verification to download a spyware application to your computer. If you click on that ad, you are essentially telling the website to download their software and start taking your information. Even by clicking the "x" button and closing the popup in some cases you might be verifying that download.

Malicious Websites

If you find a website that you do not know and that sets off the alarms of most spyware indicators, it might simply install software onto your computer without your leave. In these cases, you might leave the website immediately, thinking you have kept yourself safe, but it only takes a second for the spyware to install on your computer and start sapping your personal information. Spyware detection software will actually stop you from visiting these kinds of sites by warning you of what you are about to encounter.

The worst part is that, in some cases, spyware is completely legal. If you click on an agreement that allows the spyware to install itself, either in another software program or on a pop-up ad, you are giving the third party permission to install their spyware on your computer, forfeiting your right to privacy.

The best way to protect yourself from these malicious spyware creators is to not click on or download anything suspicious. Install a third party program that will monitor websites and downloads for spyware and delete anything that does not belong on your computer.

Download Privacy Controls now and protect your PC from snoops!