Spyware and Computer Viruses – An Overview
Posted on 01-29-10
There are many different types of “Malware” (malicious software programs). Viruses, Worms, Trojan Horses, Rootkits, Spyware, etc. are all forms of “Malware”. Malware is software designed to attack or modify a computer system without the user’s consent. The most common way malware is spread from the creator is over the Internet, through the forms of email and the World Wide Web.
Spyware and computer viruses are the most common forms of malware. There are many differences between the two, but the main difference is how they spread. A computer virus can spread from one computer to another in email attachments, instant messages, and other forms of shared media such as USB flash drives. Computer viruses cause damage by corrupting or deleting data on your computer and some are even capable of emailing themselves to people in your contact list.
Spyware, on the other hand, is usually installed unknowingly by the user. Once installed on your system, spyware programs can collect various types of personal information, such as Internet surfing habits and passwords. Spyware can also interfere with user control of their computer. Examples of this include the installation of additional software in an attempt to confuse the user, or redirecting of web browsing activity to an illegitimate website. Here are some general ways in which spyware is installed:
- Piggybacked Software Installation from Freeware or Shareware – Some popular types of software (such as free peer-to-peer media file sharing clients) can and do install spyware in their normal install process. You authorize the download and install the program, however, you could additionally be getting spyware installed at the same time.
- Drive-By Download – Either a website or a pop-up window tries to install the spyware on your computer. Depending on your web browser settings, you may or may not get a pop-up request to click “OK” to complete the installation.
- Fake Anti-Spyware – Software that pretends to be legitimate security software and provides the user with an alert(s) that your computer is infected. It will convince the user to run the fake program scanner, and in some cases, offer to remove the fake infections for a paid fee.
- Browser-Add-ons - These are pieces of software that install into your web browser to add functionality enhancements. These include additional search bars, tool bars, download accelerators, etc… The add-on may in fact work, but have elements of spyware included.
Symptoms of Spyware and Computer Viruses
- Pop-ups appear randomly on your screen – These ads may display on your screen even if you are not browsing the Web.
- Computer settings change and you are unable to change them back – Changes can include your web browser home page, search settings, and desktop settings.
- New software or web browser components appear on your system – Spyware can add toolbars to your browser or install unwanted software such as fake anti-virus applications.
- Computer has become slow and sluggish - Spyware utilizes critical system resources such as CPU and memory to track your activities, provide pop-up ads, and modify system files.
Protecting your computer from Malware
Although there is no 100% effective way to avoid viruses and spyware infections (unless your computer is off 24/7), there are ways to remove malware and help prevent malware from infecting your computer.
- Use a Firewall - A firewall can assist in providing a defense against hackers that can attempt to remotely install malware on your computer.
- Keep Software Updated - Many software vendors provide critical and security updates for their products.
- Install Anti-Spyware and Virus Protection - There are free and paid virus, spyware, and security software bundles that help protect your computer from unwanted software. Scan your computer regularly.
- Only download software from websites that you trust - If you are uncertain, enter the software program into a search engine and see if anyone has reported that it contains spyware.
- Make sure you read all security warnings, license agreements, and privacy statements for the software you are considering to download.
- Never click “Agree” or “OK” to close a pop-up window – Use the “X” in the right hand corner or the keyboard combination of Alt+F4 to close the window.
- Be cautious with installing “free” music and video file sharing software – Make sure you understand all of the software that comes with that program.
Opti-Vise provides organizations with help managing and maintaining their business critical systems and mitigates potential security risks. Opti-Vise provides fully managed anti-virus and spyware solutions along with our monitoring services. For more information regarding our monitoring services, contact us at (800) 834-7479 or sales@opti-vise.com today.
Post written by Michael Hardwick
