Spyware

1. Spyware Avoid it, ok? ?

2. Why is Spyware bad? It can slow down the fastest computer. It can slow down the fastest connection. It not only runs all the time, but many versions will download buddies to hang with. It reports on your Internet usage, and some steal passwords and usernames. It can crash an otherwise “healthy” system due to being a poorly written program. It can ruin your Internet browsing experience with tons of pop-up (and under) ads. It can put hundreds of “adult” links on your system, not to mention changing your home page to whatever it wants. It can make you fear doing anything on the ‘Net.

3. Why is Spyware bad? 9) Your “search” page could be changed to a page the spyware writer prefers you to visit. 10) You are redirected to sites other than the one you typed in the address bar. 11) Not only can you get the pop-ups, but you can get a HUGE number of pop-ups. 12) Your “home page” can be changed, and locked in, to something you didn’t choose, including an adult site. 13) Random error messages pop up, and new icons can be added to your desktop, browser, or other programs.

4. How does Spyware get on my system? You installed it without knowing. Another piece of spyware downloaded it and installed it without your knowledge. A site you visited told you it was going to, but who reads that stuff anyway? Tsk, tsk, you just had to get free music from something like Kazaa, didn’t you? ? Someone else using your system installed it. In order to play a game online or see the “pretty cursors on this site,” you had to install it. You clicked on an ad that ironically claimed to remove spyware. You downloaded a “free” program that’s only free because you agree, by installing it, to allow spyware to be installed on your system. The operative word is “secretly.”

5. Some Examples

25. How do you prevent Spyware? If you are asked to install something when visiting a site, choose “no” or “cancel” unless you are certain it’s ok. Never click on a link that shows up in a pop-up window. Don’t click on links in e-mail that are suspicious or from someone you don’t know. Don’t download from sites that offer programs for free, unless you’re sure they don’t install spyware as well. Never click on anything offering to scan your system or remove spyware for you. Install a real anti-spyware program and scan your system yourself every so often. If you’re downloading files from Kazaa or a similar P2P program, don’t download those with two extensions such as “music.mp3.exe” or the like.

26. End.