Spyware and Adware have become a major problem on corporate networks as well as home computers. I’d like to start by defining each. Adware is any program that runs in the foreground or background on your computer that generates advertisements in the form of pop-ups. They often show up on boot up, when surfing the internet, or when running certain programs. Spyware is a hidden program that runs in the background on your computer and collects all types of data including internet browsing, shopping habits, bank accounts, passwords, and credit card numbers which often lead to identity theft.

Spyware/Adware differ from viruses in that they do not replicate and infect computers the way viruses do and are usually not be detected by virus scanners. So how does spyware and adware get onto your computer? It is usually inadvertently installed by downloading free programs from the internet. Some examples of spyware/adware enabled programs that you may already have on your computer are Kazaa, Bonzi Buddy, Smiley Central, Weather Bug, Anti-virus 2010, downloaded screen savers, and most Internet Explorer add-on toolbars.

There are a few simple things you can do to prevent these infections. For starters, always keep your computer up to date by installing the latest critical updates and patches from Microsoft. This will also prevent many virus infections. Be wary of free programs you install on your computer. Ask yourself why this program is being offered for free. Chances are the answer is to generate advertising profits or to track your browsing habits.

If you suspect a Spyware/Adware infection, consult with a professional such as Capitol Computer or use a good, commercially available anti-spyware/adware program such as MalwareBytes or Counter Spy to scan for and remove all occurrences of these programs. Again, stay away from free anti-spyware programs as they often only remove their competitors’ applications and leave you infected.

By: Jeffrey Pena

Senior Network Engineer

Capitol Computer Exchange

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