Lock Up Your PC
While as many as 9 out of 10 PCs are infected with spyware, adware or both, many people are unsure if their computers are infected, unaware of what these malicious forms of software do and confused about how to protect themselves.
The word “spyware” was originally coined in 1995 by a Usenet group user discussing Microsoft. The early usage of the word described small, hidden cameras and actual pieces of spying hardware. In the year 2000, a personal firewall company used the word “spyware” to describe a piece of software that installs itself without permission, or sometimes with permission when it has misrepresented itself, and runs in the background performing malicious functions like stealing confidential information and sending it to a third party. The computer user usually is not aware that the spyware program is running and that they are in danger of having their confidential information, such as passwords, login information, credit card and bank account numbers compromised.
Adware began with what seemed like a good idea. Beginning in the mid-1990s, many software developers and programmers included adware programs in free software downloads, such as games, as a way to gain some compensation for developing the program. Adware is often installed with permission when the user agrees to the terms of the download before software installation. In order to serve ads that are of interest to the individual user, adware tracks online activity, including web sites visited and chat discussions. As adware became increasingly sophisticated, the potential for harm became a reality. While seemingly mutually beneficial, adware is similar to spyware in that it invades the user’s privacy, possibly leaving them open to identity theft.
How can you tell if your system has been compromised? Below are some signs that may indicate that your computer is infected with adware or spyware programs:
1. Your computer runs much slower than it did.
2. Your browser homepage has changed from your settings.
3. Your browser keeps redirecting to another page.
4. Pop-up windows appear on your desktop.
5. Your computer crashes or reboots unexpectedly.
6. You experience slow computer start up and shut down.
7. New and unfamiliar bookmarks or startup programs appear.
Even if your computer is exhibiting few or none of these signs, your system may still be infected with adware or spyware programs. What is the best way to find these malicious pieces of software and to rid yourself of them?
In these days of aggressive adware and spyware programs secretly working to steal your private information, the best way to protect yourself is by using cutting edge spyware blocking software, like the award winning PCTools Spyware Doctor. PCTools Spyware Doctor offers the ultimate in adware blocking software. Easy to use, it protects you against spyware, adware, trojans and any other identity theft threat. PCTools Spyware Doctor scans your system and safely removes existing threats while offering complete real-time protection from incoming attacks. Staying one step ahead of adware and spyware programs, Spyware Doctor is updated frequently to ensure your system’s safety.
What are some other tips for protecting yourself against spyware and adware?
1. Never open an email attachment unless you are expecting it.
2. Never download and install programs from web sites unless you know they can be trusted.
3. Read the End User License Agreement, or EULA, thoroughly before agreeing to the terms and installing software.
4. Scan your system at least once a week with your spyware blocking software. Keep your spyware software updated.
By using common sense and technologically advanced adware blocking software, like PCTools Spyware Doctor, you can protect your system from becoming infected with potentially harmful software.
