The internet is undoubtedly a fantastic resource for families and offers a rich vein of educational content. However, there are potential dangers - welcome to the seedy world of viruses, spam, trojans, pornography, spyware and other nasties.
Here are the Top Twelve Threats No Computer User Should Ignore:
1. Viruses - A computer program that copies itself. They often disrupt your computer system or damage your data. Viruses are usually received by email attachments so be careful opening anything from a dubious source. They can affect anyone, for example, the destructive Mydoom worm affected one out of three small and mid-sized businesses.
2. Spyware - Sends information about you and your computer to somebody else. Spyware may send the addresses of sites you have visited or worse still, transmit personal information. With today's concerns about identify theft this is a real worry. For example, CoolWebSearch may hijack web searches, home page, and other Internet Explorer settings. Spyware is normally received as part of shareware or freeware downloaded from the web.
3. IP Spoofing - A technique to gain unauthorized access to computers, whereby the intruder sends messages to a computer with an address indicating that the message is coming from a trusted host.
4. Trojans - An apparently legitimate computer program that is really intended to disrupt and damage computer activity by sending information, perhaps even passwords onto a third party without you knowing. As an example, recent emails entitled "Osama Bin Laden Captured" attempted to download the "Trj/Small.B." Trojan if the embedded URL was clicked. This trojan attempts to hijack the PC.
5. Spam - Unsolicited mail often promoting products of a dubious financial or sexual nature. Don't leave your email address on websites and internet bulletin boards as they are harvested by spammers.
6. Adware - puts advertisements on your screen. These take many forms including popups, popunders and advertisements that appear later, even if your browser is closed. Some are sent using the Windows Messenger service which allows a spammer to direct an advertisement straight to your computer by sequentially sending messages to IP addresses. Always irritating, they are also often of a pornographic nature.
7. Diallers - for those of us still with dial up modems, dialler programs redirect calls to a very expensive number. You won't know until you get the bill.
8. Hijackers - Hijackers take control of your web browser and may reset your home page, search bar and search pages. They can redirect you to undesirable sites or stop you going to particular sites.
9. Hackers - With so much personal data available online to anyone with a password you must be sure your password is secure. If you are using your mother's maiden name, your cat's name or your birthday then your password is at risk. Here are two tips for making a secure password. Method One - pick two random unrelated three letter words and two digits. Mix them up and what do you have? A secure password such as "red19cat" or "hotpin73". Method Two - pick a short sequence of words such as Now Is The Winter Of Our Discontent Made Glorious' and you have a password of "nitwoodmg". You could even change the I's and O's to digits.
10. Phishing - Emails purporting to come from reliable sources such as Paypal, Ebay or your bank. Often wanting you to verify your account details, they can look very realistic but are generally scams to harvest usernames and passwords. Always open a new browser winder and type the address there, rather than clicking on the link provided.
11. Hoaxes - Chain letters, scams, false alarms. At best they take up time and bandwidth but at worst vulnerable can be victims of fraud. Pass it on!
12. Stranger-danger - For those of us with children - do you know what they actually do when they are online? Are they working on homework tasks, downloading illegal music or pornography? Or are they chatting to strangers in chat rooms? You should consider blocking access to undesirable sites and logging their activity with a surveillance tool. Oh, and don't forget that where children are concerned, computers should always be kept in a family room and never in their bedroom.
Three Step Action Plan
There are three essential steps that should be taken to ensure your PC is kept threat-free.
Firstly, be sensible when opening attachments or following email instructions from apparently reputable sites.
Secondly, make sure you are using the latest service pack of Windows as Microsoft is continually closing loopholes to tighten up security.
Finally, there's a range of low cost tools such as firewalls, antivirus, spam blockers and spyware killers available. Like everything else they vary in quality and you tend to get what you pay for so always do your research first and perhaps try a free trial before getting your credit card out.
http://www.surfcontrols.com specializes in providing reviews and recommendations of top-rated tools to help protect your online experience. There's a quick reference list to dozens of top sites promoting different aspects of safe surfing packed with useful information and there's also a great set of top tips for safe surfing.
About the author:
Kai Chandler is a project manager and journalist particularly interested in tools and techniques to protect his family and computer against spam, porn, viruses and malware. As a father of two he is keen to ensure that his children enjoy a safe surfing surfing experience. His reviews of the very best parental internet filters, anti-virus, anti-spam, anti-spyware and surveillance tools are at http://www.surfcontrols.com its essential reading for any parent and computer owner.
Saturday, September 1, 2007
The Spyware That Shagged Me
[Teaser]There may be a spy hiding on your computer, and it's not a spy that loves you. Find out how to spot spyware and keep from getting shagged.[Teaser]
With spyware's costing the world billions of dollars in computer damage, identity theft, and time spent removing it, many people have just one question: Who are these people who keep falling for a spy?
Well, I’m here to tell you who these spyware dupes are, or at least some of them.
They’re me.
Yes, I admit it: I harbored spyware on my computer for nearly three months. Yes, I knew it was there. But I thought it was the Roger Moore kind of spyware, the dangerous-in-a-good-way kind of spy, the spy that only hurts the bad guys, the spy that loves you. Instead, it was the Mike Meyers kind of spyware, and it shagged me rotten.
How could I be such a dupe, especially when I, someone who works entirely on the internet, knew that deep down all spyware is ultimately more Austin Powers than James Bond?
How Spyware Shags You Or, Possible Reasons for Me Harboring Spyware on My Computer for Three Months
First, just for fun, let’s look at the theories at why people allow spyware to lurk:
• They don’t know they have spyware, plain and simple.
• They know they have spyware but don't know how much trouble it can cause.
• They know they have spyware and how much trouble it can cause, but they don't know how to remove it.
• They are chronically lazy, stupid, or just perpetual procrastinators. OK, the terms used aren’t quite that specific, but that’s the general idea.
Why Savvy Web Users Get Shagged Or, The Real Reason I Let Spyware Lurk
So how did the spyware sneak onto my machine? It didn't have to sneak at all. Technically, at least, I gave my permission for it to be installed, as do millions of others.
It began with an article I'd read about an old film that wasn't being released for some reason or other, but that had found second life on peer-to-peer file-sharing networks. I won't say which file-sharing software I downloaded to get on this network, but no sooner had I installed it than kazaam! my computer had unwanted software out the kazoo. I later read in a newspaper article that permission to install the spyware was included in the software's standard license agreement, the little screen filled with text that shows up when you start to install software.
I had come across a couple pieces of the software a few times in the next three months. But every time I tried to uninstall it, it informed me that doing so would disable the file-sharing software. I should have just let the file-sharing software go, but since the little mystery programs hadn't caused any trouble I could see, I didn't think it was worth the bother.
Flushing Out the Spies
I finally got rid of the spyware not long ago.
No, I didn't suddenly discover the spyware, or what is was, or that it was harmful, nor did my lazy, stupid ways correct themselves.
What happened?
Photoshop.
Well, not actually Photoshop. It was a cheaper graphics program, but only slightly less resource-hungry.
My six-month-old Centrino laptop couldn't run the graphics software and my email software at the same time.
I did a Ctrl-alt-delete to see what other programs might be running quietly out of view. I found a dozen mysterious applications toiling away, sucking up almost a quarter of the system resources not taken by the operating system, anti-virus software, firewall, and other essentials.
A quick scan with an anti-spyware program unmasked the mysterious intruders as the "companion software" installed by the file-sharing program.
My computer has been running fine ever since. Yes, I'm lucky that this spyware was really the adware kind and not the kind that goes searching for credit card numbers. In fact, the file-sharing program claims repeatedly on their homepage that they do not install spyware in any shape or form, since the only spying it does is on your web browsing, in order to serve targeted advertising. But, I've learned my lesson: even if a spy only steals your computer resources and not your money, you're still getting shagged.
About the author:
Joel Walsh writes for http://www.spyware-refuge.com on how to remove spyware: http://www.spyware-refuge.com ?Download Spyware Removal [Publish this article on your website! Requirement: live link for above URL/web address w/ link text/anchor text: "Download Spyware Removal" OR leave this bracketed message intact.]
With spyware's costing the world billions of dollars in computer damage, identity theft, and time spent removing it, many people have just one question: Who are these people who keep falling for a spy?
Well, I’m here to tell you who these spyware dupes are, or at least some of them.
They’re me.
Yes, I admit it: I harbored spyware on my computer for nearly three months. Yes, I knew it was there. But I thought it was the Roger Moore kind of spyware, the dangerous-in-a-good-way kind of spy, the spy that only hurts the bad guys, the spy that loves you. Instead, it was the Mike Meyers kind of spyware, and it shagged me rotten.
How could I be such a dupe, especially when I, someone who works entirely on the internet, knew that deep down all spyware is ultimately more Austin Powers than James Bond?
How Spyware Shags You Or, Possible Reasons for Me Harboring Spyware on My Computer for Three Months
First, just for fun, let’s look at the theories at why people allow spyware to lurk:
• They don’t know they have spyware, plain and simple.
• They know they have spyware but don't know how much trouble it can cause.
• They know they have spyware and how much trouble it can cause, but they don't know how to remove it.
• They are chronically lazy, stupid, or just perpetual procrastinators. OK, the terms used aren’t quite that specific, but that’s the general idea.
Why Savvy Web Users Get Shagged Or, The Real Reason I Let Spyware Lurk
So how did the spyware sneak onto my machine? It didn't have to sneak at all. Technically, at least, I gave my permission for it to be installed, as do millions of others.
It began with an article I'd read about an old film that wasn't being released for some reason or other, but that had found second life on peer-to-peer file-sharing networks. I won't say which file-sharing software I downloaded to get on this network, but no sooner had I installed it than kazaam! my computer had unwanted software out the kazoo. I later read in a newspaper article that permission to install the spyware was included in the software's standard license agreement, the little screen filled with text that shows up when you start to install software.
I had come across a couple pieces of the software a few times in the next three months. But every time I tried to uninstall it, it informed me that doing so would disable the file-sharing software. I should have just let the file-sharing software go, but since the little mystery programs hadn't caused any trouble I could see, I didn't think it was worth the bother.
Flushing Out the Spies
I finally got rid of the spyware not long ago.
No, I didn't suddenly discover the spyware, or what is was, or that it was harmful, nor did my lazy, stupid ways correct themselves.
What happened?
Photoshop.
Well, not actually Photoshop. It was a cheaper graphics program, but only slightly less resource-hungry.
My six-month-old Centrino laptop couldn't run the graphics software and my email software at the same time.
I did a Ctrl-alt-delete to see what other programs might be running quietly out of view. I found a dozen mysterious applications toiling away, sucking up almost a quarter of the system resources not taken by the operating system, anti-virus software, firewall, and other essentials.
A quick scan with an anti-spyware program unmasked the mysterious intruders as the "companion software" installed by the file-sharing program.
My computer has been running fine ever since. Yes, I'm lucky that this spyware was really the adware kind and not the kind that goes searching for credit card numbers. In fact, the file-sharing program claims repeatedly on their homepage that they do not install spyware in any shape or form, since the only spying it does is on your web browsing, in order to serve targeted advertising. But, I've learned my lesson: even if a spy only steals your computer resources and not your money, you're still getting shagged.
About the author:
Joel Walsh writes for http://www.spyware-refuge.com on how to remove spyware: http://www.spyware-refuge.com ?Download Spyware Removal [Publish this article on your website! Requirement: live link for above URL/web address w/ link text/anchor text: "Download Spyware Removal" OR leave this bracketed message intact.]
The Complete Guide To Spotting Computer Spies & Recording Devices
Can you be absolutely sure, that your activity isn't being monitored and recorded right now, while you're reading this?
The problem with many people is, because they're alone in a room with their computer, they think that no body can be watching.
If only they knew how easy it is to plant a computer recording device or software recording program onto a computer, they wouldn't feel so safe.
Whether you're a total computer newbie or a seasoned Internet veteran, everyone needs to know how to protect their privacy using the right anti spyware tools for the job.
In this article, I will show you how to easily spot a computer recording device or detect spy software using specific anti spyware tools.
It's really quite simple if you know what FREE anti spyware tools to use.
Computer monitoring devices come in two main categories, Hardware Key loggers & Spyware Software:
In this article I will address each of these categories and give you the best anti spyware solutions available, to spot and prevent them from spying on you
Hardware Key Loggers:
This type of Key Logger requires that the perpetrator have physical access to your computer.
Key Loggers can easily be installed in less than 5 seconds.
It doesn't matter if you use your computer at home or at work. If anyone has access to your computer they can install one of these devices without knowing a thing about computers.
If you want to see pictures and read up on this type of product, here is the URL for probably the most well known hardware Key Logger on the Internet: http://www.i-loc.com
Once installed, a hardware Key Logger will capture every keystroke entered into your keyboard and then store it for future retrieval on the device itself.
Some hardware Key Logger companies boast a two-million keystroke capacity!
That's about 5 years worth of typing for the average computer user.
Whether at home or in the office, you can easily fall victim to this type of spying. A hardware Key Logger is installed between your keyboard and computer.
Removal of Hardware Key Loggers:
There are no anti spyware tools available for this except you're own two eyeballs. By taking a peek behind your system and following your keyboard cable, you can find out if there is something "odd" inserted between your keyboard and computer.
To remove a hardware Key Logger, you must shut down your system! You could cause damage your system if you attempt to remove the Key Logger while your computer is running!
Once your system is powered off, carefully remove the Key Logger from in between your keyboard and computer, and then plug your keyboard directly back into the computer. Make sure that it is plugged in completely and be gentle as the connectors are somewhat fragile.
It is very important to become an anti spyware enthusiast and check any computer you sit down at for hardware key loggers
Spyware:
Most everyone has heard of the term spyware.
Unfortunately the majority of people don't really understand what spyware does and what kind of anti spyware tool is best for them.
Spyware itself is broken down into two categories.
Adware vs Spy Software
Adware:
Adware (Advertising Spyware) is the most prevalent form of spyware. It monitors Internet activity to send targeted advertising to you as a consumer, or simply monitor your surfing habits to gather intelligence for companies who want to know what your interests are.
Adware is generally not a security threat, but can really mess up your computer when you try to remove it. Adware removal could cost you hundreds of dollars in repair bills even using the best anti spyware tools available.
Adware is written by "coders" who don't care what happens to your computer should you try to uninstall their software using an anti spyware tool.
Their only concern is making money from the information they acquire from your computer use.
Adware infections often cause many to make a trip to the computer repair shop just to get their computer back into running condition.
Adware can get on your computer in a variety of ways. You may download free programs, a screensaver, or some music or video, and the adware tags right along with your download file.
File sharing on peer to peer networks has been one of the worst culprits out there causing the serious spread of spyware worldwide.
Adware Symptoms:
The symptoms of Adware are uncontrollable popups, unwanted extra toolbars, and drastically slowed down computer performance that can result in freezes or lock up. When this happens it's time to get out your favorite anti spyware tool.
Tip: Music or File Sharing Can Be Dangerous: Never download ANYTHING from a website you do not trust, or can't verify, that they are a legitimate download site. Many times spyware can be attached to the music or file sharing programs themselves!
Adware Removal Using Anti-Spyware Tools:
You don't have to purchase an anti spyware tool for adware removal. I'm going to show you how to deal with an adware problem for free.
Unfortunately there are many anti spyware companies trying to profit from the spyware problem, so some of the anti spyware tools on the market today are very inferior "slapped together" products.
Some of these anti spyware companies do as much damage to a computer as the adware does. Many times all they want you to do is give them money. After all, how can you really know if they have done the job or not?
Some sneaky adware companies have even joined up with anti-spyware software companies and created a spyware removal utility that actually puts spyware on your system!
It's unbelievable what some people will do for a buck.
The only anti spyware tool you need to use if you have adware on your system is SpyBot, which comes highly recommended by security experts.
And it won't cost you a penny!
SpyBot is FREE...
SpyBot anti spyware will do everything the paid ones do and then some. If you like SpyBot anti spyware you can donate money to the author, but only if you want to.
Here is the website for this excellent FREE anti spyware adware removal tool.
http://www.safer-networking.org/en/download/
Spy Software...Are You Sure You're Alone?
Spy Software is designed to silently record computer activity and then archive it for later retrieval, or stealthily send everything you do on your computer back to the intruder.
In my opinion, this type of spyware does the more damage to lives WORLDWIDE than any virus or adware product ever could.
Because spy software is so easy for anyone to purchase and install, now ANYONE who wants to find out what you're doing on your computer can see everything.
The worst part is, spy software is virtually undetectable by most adware scanners.
Want to see what I'm talking about? One of the best known companies who sell this type of spy software is www.spectorsoft.com
Most Spy Software is sold to spy on other family members, leading to divorce and all kinds of grief.
The worst cases are when used by business associates or even those who are after your credit card information or passwords to your accounts.
I've got a firewall you say...
Many Spy Software products can bypass even the best firewalls.
A firewall will lock up your system and require you to give your permission for any software program to operate on your system.
Spy Software companies know this, and many have figured a way to bypass most firewalls and send your personal information right over the Internet to the perpetrators.
When your firewall is triggered to ask you for your permission to send your captured information, the spy software will actually alter the message your firewall uses to ask your permission.
Your firewall will now ask you if it's alright for "Internet Explorer" or some application you're totally familiar with to access the Internet.
Of course you will click yes, and many times you will tell your firewall not to bother you when this program accesses the Internet in the future.
By clicking yes, you've just allowed the spy software to send your private information to the perpetrator(s).
Spy Software can be slipped onto your system via e-greeting cards, emails, Trojans or just simply physical access to your PC.
Spy Software Removal:
Whatever anti spyware tool you get, don't spend your money unless you're VERY SURE the product will do the job for you.
You wouldn't get a virus scanner that only got some of the viruses would you?
You can use the anti spyware SpyBot for most adware related spyware and it will even catch some Spy Software products.
The absolute best product I've seen to detect Spy Software is SpyCop.
SpyCop does not... I repeat, DOES NOT focus on adware. Do not download SpyCop to deal with adware infections.
SpyCop is a tool that is totally dedicated to detecting Spy Software products and has the most up to date spy software database anywhere.
SpyCop will scour your system for over 500 spy software products
SpyCop has been tested and proven to work by the most ardent anti spyware experts. http://www.spycop.com/download1
About the author:
Elizabeth Ward makes it easy to protect your Internet & computer privacy. Learn the 4 essential steps to spy proofing your computer. To receive your FREE mini-course visit http://www.nospyzone.com/AntiSpyware
The problem with many people is, because they're alone in a room with their computer, they think that no body can be watching.
If only they knew how easy it is to plant a computer recording device or software recording program onto a computer, they wouldn't feel so safe.
Whether you're a total computer newbie or a seasoned Internet veteran, everyone needs to know how to protect their privacy using the right anti spyware tools for the job.
In this article, I will show you how to easily spot a computer recording device or detect spy software using specific anti spyware tools.
It's really quite simple if you know what FREE anti spyware tools to use.
Computer monitoring devices come in two main categories, Hardware Key loggers & Spyware Software:
In this article I will address each of these categories and give you the best anti spyware solutions available, to spot and prevent them from spying on you
Hardware Key Loggers:
This type of Key Logger requires that the perpetrator have physical access to your computer.
Key Loggers can easily be installed in less than 5 seconds.
It doesn't matter if you use your computer at home or at work. If anyone has access to your computer they can install one of these devices without knowing a thing about computers.
If you want to see pictures and read up on this type of product, here is the URL for probably the most well known hardware Key Logger on the Internet: http://www.i-loc.com
Once installed, a hardware Key Logger will capture every keystroke entered into your keyboard and then store it for future retrieval on the device itself.
Some hardware Key Logger companies boast a two-million keystroke capacity!
That's about 5 years worth of typing for the average computer user.
Whether at home or in the office, you can easily fall victim to this type of spying. A hardware Key Logger is installed between your keyboard and computer.
Removal of Hardware Key Loggers:
There are no anti spyware tools available for this except you're own two eyeballs. By taking a peek behind your system and following your keyboard cable, you can find out if there is something "odd" inserted between your keyboard and computer.
To remove a hardware Key Logger, you must shut down your system! You could cause damage your system if you attempt to remove the Key Logger while your computer is running!
Once your system is powered off, carefully remove the Key Logger from in between your keyboard and computer, and then plug your keyboard directly back into the computer. Make sure that it is plugged in completely and be gentle as the connectors are somewhat fragile.
It is very important to become an anti spyware enthusiast and check any computer you sit down at for hardware key loggers
Spyware:
Most everyone has heard of the term spyware.
Unfortunately the majority of people don't really understand what spyware does and what kind of anti spyware tool is best for them.
Spyware itself is broken down into two categories.
Adware vs Spy Software
Adware:
Adware (Advertising Spyware) is the most prevalent form of spyware. It monitors Internet activity to send targeted advertising to you as a consumer, or simply monitor your surfing habits to gather intelligence for companies who want to know what your interests are.
Adware is generally not a security threat, but can really mess up your computer when you try to remove it. Adware removal could cost you hundreds of dollars in repair bills even using the best anti spyware tools available.
Adware is written by "coders" who don't care what happens to your computer should you try to uninstall their software using an anti spyware tool.
Their only concern is making money from the information they acquire from your computer use.
Adware infections often cause many to make a trip to the computer repair shop just to get their computer back into running condition.
Adware can get on your computer in a variety of ways. You may download free programs, a screensaver, or some music or video, and the adware tags right along with your download file.
File sharing on peer to peer networks has been one of the worst culprits out there causing the serious spread of spyware worldwide.
Adware Symptoms:
The symptoms of Adware are uncontrollable popups, unwanted extra toolbars, and drastically slowed down computer performance that can result in freezes or lock up. When this happens it's time to get out your favorite anti spyware tool.
Tip: Music or File Sharing Can Be Dangerous: Never download ANYTHING from a website you do not trust, or can't verify, that they are a legitimate download site. Many times spyware can be attached to the music or file sharing programs themselves!
Adware Removal Using Anti-Spyware Tools:
You don't have to purchase an anti spyware tool for adware removal. I'm going to show you how to deal with an adware problem for free.
Unfortunately there are many anti spyware companies trying to profit from the spyware problem, so some of the anti spyware tools on the market today are very inferior "slapped together" products.
Some of these anti spyware companies do as much damage to a computer as the adware does. Many times all they want you to do is give them money. After all, how can you really know if they have done the job or not?
Some sneaky adware companies have even joined up with anti-spyware software companies and created a spyware removal utility that actually puts spyware on your system!
It's unbelievable what some people will do for a buck.
The only anti spyware tool you need to use if you have adware on your system is SpyBot, which comes highly recommended by security experts.
And it won't cost you a penny!
SpyBot is FREE...
SpyBot anti spyware will do everything the paid ones do and then some. If you like SpyBot anti spyware you can donate money to the author, but only if you want to.
Here is the website for this excellent FREE anti spyware adware removal tool.
http://www.safer-networking.org/en/download/
Spy Software...Are You Sure You're Alone?
Spy Software is designed to silently record computer activity and then archive it for later retrieval, or stealthily send everything you do on your computer back to the intruder.
In my opinion, this type of spyware does the more damage to lives WORLDWIDE than any virus or adware product ever could.
Because spy software is so easy for anyone to purchase and install, now ANYONE who wants to find out what you're doing on your computer can see everything.
The worst part is, spy software is virtually undetectable by most adware scanners.
Want to see what I'm talking about? One of the best known companies who sell this type of spy software is www.spectorsoft.com
Most Spy Software is sold to spy on other family members, leading to divorce and all kinds of grief.
The worst cases are when used by business associates or even those who are after your credit card information or passwords to your accounts.
I've got a firewall you say...
Many Spy Software products can bypass even the best firewalls.
A firewall will lock up your system and require you to give your permission for any software program to operate on your system.
Spy Software companies know this, and many have figured a way to bypass most firewalls and send your personal information right over the Internet to the perpetrators.
When your firewall is triggered to ask you for your permission to send your captured information, the spy software will actually alter the message your firewall uses to ask your permission.
Your firewall will now ask you if it's alright for "Internet Explorer" or some application you're totally familiar with to access the Internet.
Of course you will click yes, and many times you will tell your firewall not to bother you when this program accesses the Internet in the future.
By clicking yes, you've just allowed the spy software to send your private information to the perpetrator(s).
Spy Software can be slipped onto your system via e-greeting cards, emails, Trojans or just simply physical access to your PC.
Spy Software Removal:
Whatever anti spyware tool you get, don't spend your money unless you're VERY SURE the product will do the job for you.
You wouldn't get a virus scanner that only got some of the viruses would you?
You can use the anti spyware SpyBot for most adware related spyware and it will even catch some Spy Software products.
The absolute best product I've seen to detect Spy Software is SpyCop.
SpyCop does not... I repeat, DOES NOT focus on adware. Do not download SpyCop to deal with adware infections.
SpyCop is a tool that is totally dedicated to detecting Spy Software products and has the most up to date spy software database anywhere.
SpyCop will scour your system for over 500 spy software products
SpyCop has been tested and proven to work by the most ardent anti spyware experts. http://www.spycop.com/download1
About the author:
Elizabeth Ward makes it easy to protect your Internet & computer privacy. Learn the 4 essential steps to spy proofing your computer. To receive your FREE mini-course visit http://www.nospyzone.com/AntiSpyware
Recognizing a PC with Malware
What can you do if you think your computer is affected by spyware or a virus or other malware? (Malware is short for malicious software.) First let me assure you that you aren't in this alone.
There are excellent resources and community sites dedicated to helping dig people out of the mess that malware can make. Many of them are free and I'll point you to them in this column. I'll also explain how to recognize if your computer has malware running on it and point you to antivirus programs and anti-spyware tools to help you get rid of it.
And I'll describe how to use recovery options that help get your PC back to working the way it's supposed to. And, finally, I'll talk about "The Last Resort"-rebuilding your PC from scratch.
How to recognize malware
Malware is designed to run undetected in the background. So how can you tell if you have undesirable software on your system? The signs to look for include:
• Advertising pop-ups that appear every few seconds.
• Extra toolbars in your browser that won't go away.
• Browser going to sites you didn't tell it to go to.
• Browser settings changing so your home page won't open.
• Unexplained system slowdowns.
• Sudden rise in computer crashes.
If you're experiencing these kinds of problems, it's a good idea to treat your PC as if it might be infected by checking it out thoroughly. Although there are other reasons why your system might slow down or frequently crash, if you're noticing these obvious indications of malware, your system has probably been compromised. It's time to take defensive action.
Update antivirus programs
The first step in any attempt to repair or recover a compromised PC is to update your defensive tools. Your antivirus or anti-spyware tools need to be updated to the absolute latest versions and the most recent definition files. If you can do this on the PC that has the problem, then do it there. If not, you'll need to use another PC to download the latest versions and put them on a CD or USB drive that you can use to work on the infected PC. I like the USB drive because it's highly portable and easy to update if you need to. And everything you'll need will fit easily on a 128-MB USB drive.
Gather your original software CDs and disks as well, including your original Windows CD and the Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2) CD.
You may need them before this is over, and it's good to get everything organized and ready before you start. Windows XP SP2 provides better protection against viruses, hackers, and worms. If you don't have a copy of the Windows XP SP2 CD, you should borrow one from a friend, order SP2 on a CD, or download the Network Install and copy it to a CD.
If you don't already have an antivirus program running on your computer, you'll find a number of companies offering antivirus software and firewall protection programs, among them:
• Computer Associates (http://www.ca.com)
• F-secure (http://www.f-secure.com/protectyourpc/)
• McAfee (http://www.mcafee.com)
• Panda Software (http://www.pandasoftware.com/microsoft/english.htm)
• Symantec (http://www.symantec.com)
• Trend Micro (http://www.trendmicro.com)
• Grisoft (free for home users - http://www.grisoft.com/doc/40/lng/us/tpl/tpl01)
Important: Uninstall any antivirus software you are currently using before installing a new product; having two different programs might cause problems on your computer.
Typically, these software companies make special offers of free trial versions of their antivirus and firewall packages, which should be enough to get you through this process. But to help avoid being back in this mess again, you'll want to choose one of them and get a full subscription to it so you stay up to date.
If you still have good working Internet connectivity, you can also use one of the excellent, free, online virus scanners. My favorite and one of the best is Panda Software's Panda Free Online Scanner (http://www.pandasoftware.com/activescan/com/activescan_principal.htm).
One of the most annoying and difficult to remove pieces of unwanted software is Cool Web Search and its variants. To remove this, you're best bet is CWShredder, a dedicated program that just goes after this.
You'll also need a good anti-spyware product that can help you with the detection and removal of spyware or other malware. Here, one is good and two or more are sometimes better. They don't interfere with each other, generally, and they each seem to have slightly different strengths. The two I use regularly and recommend are Spybot search & destroy (http://www.safer-networking.org/microsoft.en.html) and Computer Associates PestPatrol 5. There is new anti-spyware software from Microsoft, which is in beta testing now and holds some promise as well. (Beta software is pre-release software that is distributed for feedback and testing purposes.)
The Microsoft product is a security technology that helps you detect and remove known spyware from your PC. It also helps prevent spyware from getting on your computer in the first place. I've been using it and really like the way it works, but because it's a beta version, it won't be the right choice for everyone until the final release.
For one thing, Microsoft doesn't provide technical support for beta releases. Although formal support is not offered for this beta, you can go to the newsgroups to help get your questions answered.
Finally, it's a good idea to have a couple of other programs available. LSPFix and WinSock XP Fix can help restore your Internet connection if the cleanup process messes that up.
Back up critical files
If you can, now would be a really good time to back up critical files you'd hate to lose. Don't try to back up programs or the operating system-there's no point since they may be compromised and can be replaced. But those pictures of your daughter's wedding, your résumé, and your doctoral thesis-those are irreplaceable. Please, copy them somewhere safe, since anything you do to remove this kind of malicious software is serious and could leave your PC in a state where it might be difficult to recover or save your critical files.
Where or what you copy them to doesn't really much matter. A CD or DVD if you've got the hardware and software to do that, or a Zip disk, or just plain old floppy disks will work. But whatever medium you use, having a backup will give you the confidence to attack this malicious software without fear of losing something critical. Ed Bott's Windows XP Backup Made Easy (http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/setup/learnmore/bott_03july14.mspx) explains how to let Windows XP do most of the backup work.
Scan and remove
Once you have your defensive programs ready, located your original CDs and DVDs, and made a backup of your critical data files, it's time to start figuring out exactly what you have on your system that shouldn't be there. But before you start, disable System
Restore. The last thing you'd want to do is restore to this point anyway, and this will prevent versions of the noxious software from being saved in the restore point.
To disable System Restore
1. Click Start, right-click My Computer, and then click Properties.
2. On the System Restore tab, select the Turn off System Restore box, and click OK.
The first step should be to try the obvious. Use Add/Remove Programs in Control Panel for programs that shouldn't be there and try to uninstall them first. Some of the annoying adware programs will actually uninstall and stay uninstalled so you might as well get rid of them first.
Next I scan for conventional viruses. Use the antivirus software that you downloaded and updated or one of the online scanners if you're still online. Deal with anything it finds, either by deleting or cleaning as appropriate. Microsoft offers a Malicious Software Removal Tool (http://www.microsoft.com/security/malwareremove/default.mspx) that is updated on the first Tuesday of each month.
This tool checks computers running Windows XP, Windows 2000, and Windows Server 2003 for infections by specific, prevalent malicious software-including Blaster, Sasser, and Mydoom-and helps remove any infection found. When you're done, it's time to disconnect from the Internet. Unplug the network connection or disconnect the modem.
Next, run CWShredder. Although it only deals with a single (but pervasive) problem, many of the Cool Web Search variants can prevent the other anti-spyware programs from doing their job correctly, so it's best to go after this one first.
Now it's time to run the anti-spyware scanners. It doesn't really matter what order you run them in, but be prepared for a fairly lengthy list of things to deal with. Initially, I'd ignore any that are described as cookies-they're low on our list of concerns for now. But everything that looks like a program or that they report as a critical issue should be quarantined or deleted.
Running in safe mode
One recommendation that some experts make is to run your antivirus and anti-spyware scans and cleanup in safe mode. Some problems that can hide from these programs in normal user mode are exposed in safe mode. Other experts disagree and suggest that there is little difference. I'm of the school that thinks it can't hurt, so I suggest you try running your scans first from a normal boot, but when you've done all you can from there, start in safe mode and try running the scans again.
To start in safe mode
1. Click Start, click Shut Down, click Restart from the list, and then click OK.
2. While your computer is starting, press the F8 key until the Windows Advanced Options Menu appears.
3. Select Safe Mode and press ENTER as needed.
For more on safe mode and the options available in the Windows Advanced Options Menu, see a Description of the Safe Mode Boot Options in Windows XP at http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;315222.
Finally, when you're done fixing everything and you think you've got it all, I think it's wise to install or reinstall Windows XP Service Pack 2. Now turn on Windows Firewall, turn on System Restore, and you can connect your PC back to the Internet. Before you do anything else, go to the Windows Update site (http://update.microsoft.com) and download all of the latest security fixes. Then, turn on Automatic Updates to make sure you stay up to date.
Getting help
Removing undesirable software can be a daunting task. But as I said in the beginning, you're not in this alone. There are a wealth of resources available to you at every stage of the process. I can't begin to list them all, but some that I know about are the following:
• Microsoft Security Help and Support-the support is free for security problems and getting help removing malware is definitely a security problem: Located at http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx/gp/securityhome.
• Microsoft Security Home Users Newsgroup-good place to start, with a wealth of users and MVPs responding to your queries 24 hours a day: Located at http://www.microsoft.com/communities/newsgroups/en-us/default.aspx?dg=microsoft.public.security.homeusers&cat=en_us_d06efcb7-0e61-00 ed-6e0f-a86481b6aa20&lang=en&cr=us.
• Broadband Reports Online Security Community Forum-an excellent resource for really persistent and difficult problems, with help from Microsoft MVPs and other users: Located at http://www.broadbandreports.com/forum/security.
• SpywareInfo Forums-excellent help and fast responses: Located at http://forums.spywareinfo.com/.
• AumHa Forums-a great resource for a wide variety of Windows problems, run and staffed by Microsoft MVPs: Located at http://forum.aumha.org/.
The last resort
Finally, I want to talk about the last resort, which is performing a clean installation of Windows XP. This is not something to do casually, since you will certainly lose data and have to re-install all your programs, but it is an option if all else fails.
For more information check out our articles at http://www.tornadocomputers.com/techie
About the author:
Vice-President and CIO for Tornado Computers in Oklahoma City. Specializing in small/medium businesses and home-users Ron has become their Information Security specialist becoming more and more proficient in the removal and prevention of viruses, spyware and other threats to people's data.
There are excellent resources and community sites dedicated to helping dig people out of the mess that malware can make. Many of them are free and I'll point you to them in this column. I'll also explain how to recognize if your computer has malware running on it and point you to antivirus programs and anti-spyware tools to help you get rid of it.
And I'll describe how to use recovery options that help get your PC back to working the way it's supposed to. And, finally, I'll talk about "The Last Resort"-rebuilding your PC from scratch.
How to recognize malware
Malware is designed to run undetected in the background. So how can you tell if you have undesirable software on your system? The signs to look for include:
• Advertising pop-ups that appear every few seconds.
• Extra toolbars in your browser that won't go away.
• Browser going to sites you didn't tell it to go to.
• Browser settings changing so your home page won't open.
• Unexplained system slowdowns.
• Sudden rise in computer crashes.
If you're experiencing these kinds of problems, it's a good idea to treat your PC as if it might be infected by checking it out thoroughly. Although there are other reasons why your system might slow down or frequently crash, if you're noticing these obvious indications of malware, your system has probably been compromised. It's time to take defensive action.
Update antivirus programs
The first step in any attempt to repair or recover a compromised PC is to update your defensive tools. Your antivirus or anti-spyware tools need to be updated to the absolute latest versions and the most recent definition files. If you can do this on the PC that has the problem, then do it there. If not, you'll need to use another PC to download the latest versions and put them on a CD or USB drive that you can use to work on the infected PC. I like the USB drive because it's highly portable and easy to update if you need to. And everything you'll need will fit easily on a 128-MB USB drive.
Gather your original software CDs and disks as well, including your original Windows CD and the Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2) CD.
You may need them before this is over, and it's good to get everything organized and ready before you start. Windows XP SP2 provides better protection against viruses, hackers, and worms. If you don't have a copy of the Windows XP SP2 CD, you should borrow one from a friend, order SP2 on a CD, or download the Network Install and copy it to a CD.
If you don't already have an antivirus program running on your computer, you'll find a number of companies offering antivirus software and firewall protection programs, among them:
• Computer Associates (http://www.ca.com)
• F-secure (http://www.f-secure.com/protectyourpc/)
• McAfee (http://www.mcafee.com)
• Panda Software (http://www.pandasoftware.com/microsoft/english.htm)
• Symantec (http://www.symantec.com)
• Trend Micro (http://www.trendmicro.com)
• Grisoft (free for home users - http://www.grisoft.com/doc/40/lng/us/tpl/tpl01)
Important: Uninstall any antivirus software you are currently using before installing a new product; having two different programs might cause problems on your computer.
Typically, these software companies make special offers of free trial versions of their antivirus and firewall packages, which should be enough to get you through this process. But to help avoid being back in this mess again, you'll want to choose one of them and get a full subscription to it so you stay up to date.
If you still have good working Internet connectivity, you can also use one of the excellent, free, online virus scanners. My favorite and one of the best is Panda Software's Panda Free Online Scanner (http://www.pandasoftware.com/activescan/com/activescan_principal.htm).
One of the most annoying and difficult to remove pieces of unwanted software is Cool Web Search and its variants. To remove this, you're best bet is CWShredder, a dedicated program that just goes after this.
You'll also need a good anti-spyware product that can help you with the detection and removal of spyware or other malware. Here, one is good and two or more are sometimes better. They don't interfere with each other, generally, and they each seem to have slightly different strengths. The two I use regularly and recommend are Spybot search & destroy (http://www.safer-networking.org/microsoft.en.html) and Computer Associates PestPatrol 5. There is new anti-spyware software from Microsoft, which is in beta testing now and holds some promise as well. (Beta software is pre-release software that is distributed for feedback and testing purposes.)
The Microsoft product is a security technology that helps you detect and remove known spyware from your PC. It also helps prevent spyware from getting on your computer in the first place. I've been using it and really like the way it works, but because it's a beta version, it won't be the right choice for everyone until the final release.
For one thing, Microsoft doesn't provide technical support for beta releases. Although formal support is not offered for this beta, you can go to the newsgroups to help get your questions answered.
Finally, it's a good idea to have a couple of other programs available. LSPFix and WinSock XP Fix can help restore your Internet connection if the cleanup process messes that up.
Back up critical files
If you can, now would be a really good time to back up critical files you'd hate to lose. Don't try to back up programs or the operating system-there's no point since they may be compromised and can be replaced. But those pictures of your daughter's wedding, your résumé, and your doctoral thesis-those are irreplaceable. Please, copy them somewhere safe, since anything you do to remove this kind of malicious software is serious and could leave your PC in a state where it might be difficult to recover or save your critical files.
Where or what you copy them to doesn't really much matter. A CD or DVD if you've got the hardware and software to do that, or a Zip disk, or just plain old floppy disks will work. But whatever medium you use, having a backup will give you the confidence to attack this malicious software without fear of losing something critical. Ed Bott's Windows XP Backup Made Easy (http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/setup/learnmore/bott_03july14.mspx) explains how to let Windows XP do most of the backup work.
Scan and remove
Once you have your defensive programs ready, located your original CDs and DVDs, and made a backup of your critical data files, it's time to start figuring out exactly what you have on your system that shouldn't be there. But before you start, disable System
Restore. The last thing you'd want to do is restore to this point anyway, and this will prevent versions of the noxious software from being saved in the restore point.
To disable System Restore
1. Click Start, right-click My Computer, and then click Properties.
2. On the System Restore tab, select the Turn off System Restore box, and click OK.
The first step should be to try the obvious. Use Add/Remove Programs in Control Panel for programs that shouldn't be there and try to uninstall them first. Some of the annoying adware programs will actually uninstall and stay uninstalled so you might as well get rid of them first.
Next I scan for conventional viruses. Use the antivirus software that you downloaded and updated or one of the online scanners if you're still online. Deal with anything it finds, either by deleting or cleaning as appropriate. Microsoft offers a Malicious Software Removal Tool (http://www.microsoft.com/security/malwareremove/default.mspx) that is updated on the first Tuesday of each month.
This tool checks computers running Windows XP, Windows 2000, and Windows Server 2003 for infections by specific, prevalent malicious software-including Blaster, Sasser, and Mydoom-and helps remove any infection found. When you're done, it's time to disconnect from the Internet. Unplug the network connection or disconnect the modem.
Next, run CWShredder. Although it only deals with a single (but pervasive) problem, many of the Cool Web Search variants can prevent the other anti-spyware programs from doing their job correctly, so it's best to go after this one first.
Now it's time to run the anti-spyware scanners. It doesn't really matter what order you run them in, but be prepared for a fairly lengthy list of things to deal with. Initially, I'd ignore any that are described as cookies-they're low on our list of concerns for now. But everything that looks like a program or that they report as a critical issue should be quarantined or deleted.
Running in safe mode
One recommendation that some experts make is to run your antivirus and anti-spyware scans and cleanup in safe mode. Some problems that can hide from these programs in normal user mode are exposed in safe mode. Other experts disagree and suggest that there is little difference. I'm of the school that thinks it can't hurt, so I suggest you try running your scans first from a normal boot, but when you've done all you can from there, start in safe mode and try running the scans again.
To start in safe mode
1. Click Start, click Shut Down, click Restart from the list, and then click OK.
2. While your computer is starting, press the F8 key until the Windows Advanced Options Menu appears.
3. Select Safe Mode and press ENTER as needed.
For more on safe mode and the options available in the Windows Advanced Options Menu, see a Description of the Safe Mode Boot Options in Windows XP at http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;315222.
Finally, when you're done fixing everything and you think you've got it all, I think it's wise to install or reinstall Windows XP Service Pack 2. Now turn on Windows Firewall, turn on System Restore, and you can connect your PC back to the Internet. Before you do anything else, go to the Windows Update site (http://update.microsoft.com) and download all of the latest security fixes. Then, turn on Automatic Updates to make sure you stay up to date.
Getting help
Removing undesirable software can be a daunting task. But as I said in the beginning, you're not in this alone. There are a wealth of resources available to you at every stage of the process. I can't begin to list them all, but some that I know about are the following:
• Microsoft Security Help and Support-the support is free for security problems and getting help removing malware is definitely a security problem: Located at http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx/gp/securityhome.
• Microsoft Security Home Users Newsgroup-good place to start, with a wealth of users and MVPs responding to your queries 24 hours a day: Located at http://www.microsoft.com/communities/newsgroups/en-us/default.aspx?dg=microsoft.public.security.homeusers&cat=en_us_d06efcb7-0e61-00 ed-6e0f-a86481b6aa20&lang=en&cr=us.
• Broadband Reports Online Security Community Forum-an excellent resource for really persistent and difficult problems, with help from Microsoft MVPs and other users: Located at http://www.broadbandreports.com/forum/security.
• SpywareInfo Forums-excellent help and fast responses: Located at http://forums.spywareinfo.com/.
• AumHa Forums-a great resource for a wide variety of Windows problems, run and staffed by Microsoft MVPs: Located at http://forum.aumha.org/.
The last resort
Finally, I want to talk about the last resort, which is performing a clean installation of Windows XP. This is not something to do casually, since you will certainly lose data and have to re-install all your programs, but it is an option if all else fails.
For more information check out our articles at http://www.tornadocomputers.com/techie
About the author:
Vice-President and CIO for Tornado Computers in Oklahoma City. Specializing in small/medium businesses and home-users Ron has become their Information Security specialist becoming more and more proficient in the removal and prevention of viruses, spyware and other threats to people's data.
Malware: Computing's Dirty Dozen
It seems that no sooner do you feel safe turning on your computer than you hear on the news about a new kind of internet security threat. Usually, the security threat is some kind of malware (though the term "security threat" no doubt sells more newspapers).
What is malware? Malware is exactly what its name implies: mal (meaning bad, in the sense of malignant or malicious rather than just poorly done) ware (short for software). More specifically, malware is software that does not benefit the computer's owner, and may even harm it, and so is purely parasitic.
The Many Faces of Malware
According to Wikipedia, there are in fact eleven distinct types of malware, and even more sub-types of each.
1. Viruses. The malware that's on the news so much, even your grandmother knows what it is. You probably already have heard plenty about why this kind of software is bad for you, so there's no need to belabor the point.
2. Worms. Slight variation on viruses. The difference between viruses and worms is that viruses hide inside the files of real computer programs (for instance, the macros in Word or the VBScript in many other Microsoft applications), while worms do not infect a file or program, but rather stand on their own.
3. Wabbits.Be honest: had you ever even heard of wabbits before (outside of Warner Bros. cartoons)? According to Wikipedia, wabbits are in fact rare, and it's not hard to see why: they don't do anything to spread to other machines. A wabbit, like a virus, replicates itself, but it does not have any instructions to email itself or pass itself through a computer network in order to infect other machines. The least ambitious of all malware, it is content simply to focus on utterly devastating a single machine.
4. Trojans. Arguably the most dangerous kind of malware, at least from a social standpoint. While Trojans rarely destroy computers or even files, that's only because they have bigger targets: your financial information, your computer's system resources, and sometimes even massive denial-of-service attacks launched by having thousands of computers all try to connect to a web server at the same time. Trojans can even
5. Spyware. In another instance of creative software naming, spyware is software that spies on you, often tracking your internet activities in order to serve you advertising. (Yes, it's possible to be both adware and spyware at the same time.)
6. Backdoors. Backdoors are much the same as Trojans or worms, except that they do something different: they open a "backdoor" onto a computer, providing a network connection for hackers or other malware to enter or for viruses or spam to be sent out through.
7. Exploits. Exploits attack specific security vulnerabilities. You know how Microsoft is always announcing new updates for its operating system? Often enough the updates are really trying to close the security hole targeted in a newly discovered exploit.
8. Rootkit. The malware most likely to have a human touch, rootkits are installed by crackers (bad hackers) on other people's computers. The rootkit is designed to camouflage itself in a system's core processes so as to go undetected. It is the hardest of all malware to detect and therefore to remove; many experts recommend completely wiping your hard drive and reinstalling everything fresh.
9. Keyloggers. No prize for guessing what this software does: yes, it logs your keystrokes, i.e., what you type. Typically, the malware kind of keyloggers (as opposed to keyloggers deliberately installed by their owners to use in diagnosis computer problems) are out to log sensitive information such as passwords and financial details.
10. Dialers. Dialers dial telephone numbers via your computer's modem. Like keyloggers, they're only malware if you don't want them. Dialers either dial expensive premium-rate telephone numbers, often located in small countries far from the host computer; or, they dial a hacker's machine to transmit stolen data.
11. URL injectors. This software "injects" a given URL in place of certain URLs when you try to visit them in your browser. Usually, the injected URL is an affiliate link to the target URL. An affiliate link is a special link used to track the traffic an affiliate (advertiser) has sent to the original website, so that the original website can pay commissions on any sales from that traffic.
12. Adware. The least dangerous and most lucrative malware (lucrative for its distributors, that is). Adware displays ads on your computer. The Wikipedia entry on malware does not give adware its own category even though adware is commonly called malware. As Wikipedia notes, adware is often a subset of spyware. The implication is that if the user chooses to allow adware on his or her machine, it's not really malware, which is the defense that most adware companies take. In reality, however, the choice to install adware is usually a legal farce involving placing a mention of the adware somewhere in the installation materials, and often only in the licensing agreement, which hardly anyone reads.
Are you ready to take on this dirty dozen? Don't go it alone. Make sure you have at least one each of antivirus and antispyware.
About the author:
About the author: Joel Walsh writes for spyware-refuge.com about malware removal: http://www.spyware-refuge.com/spyware-removal.html ?malware remover [Publish this article on your website! Requirement: live link for above URL/web address w/ link text/anchor text: "malware remover" OR leave this bracketed message intact.]
What is malware? Malware is exactly what its name implies: mal (meaning bad, in the sense of malignant or malicious rather than just poorly done) ware (short for software). More specifically, malware is software that does not benefit the computer's owner, and may even harm it, and so is purely parasitic.
The Many Faces of Malware
According to Wikipedia, there are in fact eleven distinct types of malware, and even more sub-types of each.
1. Viruses. The malware that's on the news so much, even your grandmother knows what it is. You probably already have heard plenty about why this kind of software is bad for you, so there's no need to belabor the point.
2. Worms. Slight variation on viruses. The difference between viruses and worms is that viruses hide inside the files of real computer programs (for instance, the macros in Word or the VBScript in many other Microsoft applications), while worms do not infect a file or program, but rather stand on their own.
3. Wabbits.Be honest: had you ever even heard of wabbits before (outside of Warner Bros. cartoons)? According to Wikipedia, wabbits are in fact rare, and it's not hard to see why: they don't do anything to spread to other machines. A wabbit, like a virus, replicates itself, but it does not have any instructions to email itself or pass itself through a computer network in order to infect other machines. The least ambitious of all malware, it is content simply to focus on utterly devastating a single machine.
4. Trojans. Arguably the most dangerous kind of malware, at least from a social standpoint. While Trojans rarely destroy computers or even files, that's only because they have bigger targets: your financial information, your computer's system resources, and sometimes even massive denial-of-service attacks launched by having thousands of computers all try to connect to a web server at the same time. Trojans can even
5. Spyware. In another instance of creative software naming, spyware is software that spies on you, often tracking your internet activities in order to serve you advertising. (Yes, it's possible to be both adware and spyware at the same time.)
6. Backdoors. Backdoors are much the same as Trojans or worms, except that they do something different: they open a "backdoor" onto a computer, providing a network connection for hackers or other malware to enter or for viruses or spam to be sent out through.
7. Exploits. Exploits attack specific security vulnerabilities. You know how Microsoft is always announcing new updates for its operating system? Often enough the updates are really trying to close the security hole targeted in a newly discovered exploit.
8. Rootkit. The malware most likely to have a human touch, rootkits are installed by crackers (bad hackers) on other people's computers. The rootkit is designed to camouflage itself in a system's core processes so as to go undetected. It is the hardest of all malware to detect and therefore to remove; many experts recommend completely wiping your hard drive and reinstalling everything fresh.
9. Keyloggers. No prize for guessing what this software does: yes, it logs your keystrokes, i.e., what you type. Typically, the malware kind of keyloggers (as opposed to keyloggers deliberately installed by their owners to use in diagnosis computer problems) are out to log sensitive information such as passwords and financial details.
10. Dialers. Dialers dial telephone numbers via your computer's modem. Like keyloggers, they're only malware if you don't want them. Dialers either dial expensive premium-rate telephone numbers, often located in small countries far from the host computer; or, they dial a hacker's machine to transmit stolen data.
11. URL injectors. This software "injects" a given URL in place of certain URLs when you try to visit them in your browser. Usually, the injected URL is an affiliate link to the target URL. An affiliate link is a special link used to track the traffic an affiliate (advertiser) has sent to the original website, so that the original website can pay commissions on any sales from that traffic.
12. Adware. The least dangerous and most lucrative malware (lucrative for its distributors, that is). Adware displays ads on your computer. The Wikipedia entry on malware does not give adware its own category even though adware is commonly called malware. As Wikipedia notes, adware is often a subset of spyware. The implication is that if the user chooses to allow adware on his or her machine, it's not really malware, which is the defense that most adware companies take. In reality, however, the choice to install adware is usually a legal farce involving placing a mention of the adware somewhere in the installation materials, and often only in the licensing agreement, which hardly anyone reads.
Are you ready to take on this dirty dozen? Don't go it alone. Make sure you have at least one each of antivirus and antispyware.
About the author:
About the author: Joel Walsh writes for spyware-refuge.com about malware removal: http://www.spyware-refuge.com/spyware-removal.html ?malware remover [Publish this article on your website! Requirement: live link for above URL/web address w/ link text/anchor text: "malware remover" OR leave this bracketed message intact.]
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