What is Spyware? It is software whose purpose is to collect information from your computer, usually for advertising purposes. The word can also be used to describe software that “sneaks” onto the PC or performs activities hidden from the user. They can bundled as a hidden component in downloaded freeware or shareware applications. In fact a spyware could be active on your computer at this moment without your knowledge! Because it is almost always installed secretively, it suggests that spyware companies know how computer users feel about such software. They have decided that the best (or only) way to insure widespread use is to prevent the end-user from discovering it even exists!

Spyware—Uncovered

If you had a complete knowledge of what most spyware was doing to your system, you would never agree to install it. So how does it end up installed on so many computers?

1. Hides inside another program’s installer. You will often see this technique in peer-to-peer or file sharing programs like Kazaa or in freeware programs. The only hint you may see is in the end user license agreement IF you read it!

2. Uses confusing legalese. The license agreements don't just come out and tell you “we’re going to collect information”. Instead they are full of vague and confusing language.

3. Keeps asking until you say YES. Each time you visit a web page that is delivering spyware by an ActiveX control, the browser will ask you if you want to install. If you say no, it’s only good until the next page you load, where you’ll be asked the question again. After a few pages, some people give up and say YES thus allowing spyware on to their PC.

4. Creates a false pretense for needing the software. Another spyware gimmick might direct you to a website where you are asked to install software to view an email greeting card, for example. Once the software is installed, it sends a similar greeting card to everyone in YOUR address book. In the end user license agreement you didn’t read, but agreed to, you gave permission to do that!

1. Popup Windows
2. Internet browser homepage set to a different webpage than ones selected by you.
3. Frequent computer crashes.
4. Strange hard drive or modem behavior.
5. Unusually slow computer  and / or internet connection.

Spyware

vs.

1. Adjust you Internet Explorer settings to find the best setting for you. Remember that a high setting may make websites less usable.
2. Download software only from websites you trust.
3. When installing new software, read the message on each window before clicking “Agree”, “Next” or “OK”.
4. Monitor your system for signs (mentioned above) of spyware.
5. Use a spyware scanning tool to help detect & remove unwanted spyware. Be sure to pick a reputable software package.
6. Keep your anti-virus software up to date.
7. Keep Windows up to date.
8. If in doubt… ASK .. ASK …. ASK!! The staff at BC Technologies will answer your questions or provide you with the best possible solution to your problem.