Three Things You Need to Know about Spyware

You already know spyware is all over the Internet. You know you don't want it on your computer. What you may not know are these three things about spyware: what it does, how you got it and what to do about it. Spyware is the fastest growing threat to your computer and if you use the Internet, you are vulnerable to spyware and all the damage it can do.

What Is Spyware?

Spyware is the catchall term referring to malicious applications on the Internet attached to other, viable software to invade your computer and monitor your every move.

Spyware usually lurks in the registry of your computer and many users have no idea it's even there. It transmits data about your browsing habits, infiltrates your browser settings, manipulates settings on your computer, hijacks your home page, slows down your computer and can even cause the loss of your Internet connection.

Spyware can capture your personal information including credit card numbers, bank account information, Social Security numbers and more. It can cause continual pop-up ads and banner ads to appear on your screen and when you click on the ads to close them, your browser is dragged off to a website where even more damage can be done to your system.

How Does Spyware Get on Your Computer?

Unfortunately, this is an easy answer. Spyware gets on your computer because you use the Internet. Period. Spyware attaches to files, emails and applications all over the web. The instant you click on the download or install button, the spyware shoots to the depths of your computer and takes up residence. Spyware will often install even before the requested product does- so if you hit cancel, it may already be too late. Spyware will often go undetected for a long time. Many people aren't even aware of its presence until so much of it builds up on their computer it starts interfering with the functioning capability of the system. Gradually, you realize your browser is getting slower or you wonder why you start losing your Internet connection. Who knows how long your personal information has been available to the originator of that little piece of spyware?

What Can You Do About Spyware?

Numerous programs are available to scan your computer for known spyware. Many of them are free and work well to clear your computer of spyware. You need to keep them updated and use them daily. The problem is most of them can only detect and delete spyware after it has been installed- and that is too late. Here are a few things you can do to avoid downloading spyware in the first place.

• Use a firewall on your computer.
• Keep your browser software updated.
• You can raise the security settings on your computer.
• You can download software to protect your system against downloading spyware.
• Be more cautious of what you download and where you surf on the Internet.

With a little preventative measure and some common sense, you’re less likely to end up with the mess spyware can create on your computer and in your life. Take the time to add a bit of security to your habits as well as your PC and you’ll be well on your way to being spyware free.