Spyware

Spyware is software that is installed surreptitiously onto a computer. 'Spyware' is a general term, and is not limited only to software which performs espionage. Spyware can be installed through security holes in a system, through websites, or even by piggybacking with legitimate software. Spyware is without question the largest security threat on Resnet.

What does Spyware do?

Spyware, once it is installed, can do any number of things. Most spyware programs will operate in the background, without allowing for the user to close the program. Spyware can monitor keystrokes to read information that is typed into the computer, or scan the hard disk to search for valuable information. What information is valuable depends entirely on the intentions of the program's author.

The most 'harmless' spyware programs will attempt to deliver advertisements, either by using pop-up windows, adding advertisements to email, changing the background wallpaper, or any other number of ways. Others will attempt to trick users into buying a product, such as a virus-removal tool, by creating a fake 'system error' window alerting the user to the presence of a virus. The most harmful types of spyware will search for critical records, such as social security numbers, credit card or bank account numbers, addresses, and other information that would allow for identity theft.

Avoiding Spyware

• Use some form of spyware trapping program (proactive defense)
  • Windows Defender
• Scan periodically with a spyware-removal program (reactive defense)
  • Spybot Search and Destroy
  • Lavasoft Ad-Aware
  • Spyware Blaster
• Never click on a pop-up window or advertisement. These include the popluar advertisement games found on many websites, such as Myspace.
• Never use an anti-virus or anti-spyware product advertised in pop-up advertisements. Reputable anti-virus and anti-spyware vendors do not use these advertising methods.