Problems Caused by Popups and Spyware
- Annoying popup advertisements.
- Computers slow down until they become unusable.
- Programs monitor and report specific or all your computer activates.
- Criminals use collected information to steal passwords, credit cards, personal, or other secret information.
Adware & Spyware
Adware (the programs that generate most of the popup ads) is typically installed on PCs as a part of another software package. Free downloads like Kazaa (music), games, toolbars, and coupons often come with Adware. The terms and conditions of downloads explain adware will be installed on the persons machine in exchange for the free software, music, pizza or whatever. Of course, few people take time to read these terms and conditions.
People who develop spyware don’t have as much “integrity” as the adware folks. They install their spyware without asking permission. Spyware is typically loaded secretly in the form of e-mail attachments, when signing up for or rejecting an offer, or simply visiting a web site.
Both adware and spyware run in the computer background. The program quietly watches a user’s activities without their knowledge. The programs can monitoring what web sites they visit, what passwords they enter, etc. This information is sometimes sent to the adware company or a criminal. The user realizes there is a problem when pop-up advertisements start to appear on the screen and the computer starts to slow down or stop working. In some cases the person’s identity is stolen or unauthorized purchases are made on their credit card.
“Solutions”
Thinking you can keep adware and spyware off your computers is like thinking you can drive from Cincinnati to Columbus without getting any bugs on your windsheild. If you’re surfing the web, most likely you’ll have at least some spyware or adware. Having said that, here are some things you can do to minimize the issues.
Read the terms and conditions before signing up for or downloading anything for free on the Internet.
Don’t open e-mails from strangers. Don’t open attachments from people you know if your not expecting it. Call the person and ensure they sent it. If they did not, don’t open it. E-mail from strangers and unexpected attachments may contain adware or spyware waiting to install on your computer. It probably won’t install if you don’t open the e-mail or attachment. (Note: If you’re using e-mail software with a mail “Preview Pane” like Microsoft Outlook, previewing the mail is the same as opening it. You should turn this feature off. Unselect “Preview Pane” under the “View” drop down list in Outlook.)
Clear off adware that has been installed on you PC with a free program like Ad-aware at www.lavasoftusa.com. This eliminates adware already installed on your PC. Unfortunately, it will need to be run again in the future because it’s only removes adware and spyware that is already installed on your computer. A better solutions is to be proactive and…
Download a proactive anti-spyware program like Webroot’s Spy Sweeper ($29.95) at www.webroot.com or Spybot’s S&D (free) using Search & Destroy and and Immunize at www.safer-networking.org. These programs constantly watch and “prevent” adware and spyware programs from installing on your computer. Note: These programs need to be updated on a regular basis to catch the latest adware and spyware.
Sometimes a professional who addresses adware and spyware issues on a regular basis is the best solution. Swordfish has professionals who can eliminate popup ads and spyware on your computers. They can do this on-site or sometimes remotely. Swordfish can be reached at 513.489.8900.
About Swordfish Computer Solutions
Swordfish Computer Solutions helps business and individuals eliminate their computer frustrations by providing computer networking and repair. If you have any computer needs, check out our web site at www.SwordfishCS.com or call 513.489.8900.
