Computer Viruses - An Intro to Virus Removal and Protection

Posted on March 9, 2008
Filed Under Anti-Spyware Removal Tools, Computer Viruses, Trojan Horses | Leave a Comment


(click above to listen to article)
Computer Viruses - An Intro to Virus Removal and Protection

Before becoming concerned about virus removal and protection for your computer, an understanding of how computer viruses work is in order.

Computer viruses are pieces of computer code that are written into real software programs with the intent of infecting a user’s computer without their permission. When the real program is executed, such as a word processing or spreadsheet program, the computer virus is executed also. Each time the real program runs, the virus has a chance to replicate. “Computer virus” is the common term used when describing various types of replicating malicious code, or malware.

Viruses spread from computer to computer through various means such as over a network, over the Internet and even through removable storage devices like floppy disks, CD’s, and USB drives. Other means viruses can spread, include the downloading of infected files from unknown resources. File sharing and email attachments have become havens for computer viruses to thrive also.

If you’re lucky, the worst damage the virus will do is to display a video or audio message. Among other more destructive damage, once replication occurs, the computer virus will use computer resources used by other legitimate programs. The destruction escalates when the virus starts to damage ligitimate programs. It will delete files and sometimes even cause a system crash and possible data loss. Your hard drive could also be at risk of being reformatted.

Ten symptoms which could indicate a computer virus has infected your system are:

These symptoms are by no means exhaustive. Keep in mind also, that the problem may lie with the computer itself and not on any computer viruses that may have entered the computer.

Removing computer viruses and protecting your computer from viruses go hand in hand. Once removed from your system you must ensure measures are in place to prevent the offending virus from re-entering your computer. A big factor determining the level of computer virus problem you have is the type of operating system you have. Microsoft Windows environments like XP Home are much less secure than a UNIX based operating system for example.

Virus protection software from reputable companies is the best way to go for most home computer users. Many companies offer upgradable packages that add anti-spyware and email spam protection as well. Make sure you update the software on a regular basis. The best way to use anti-virus software is to scheduled it to run automatically on a daily or weekly basis depending on how frequently you use the computer.

Avoiding programs from unknown sources is still the best protection you can give your computer, but if you do tread where you shouldn’t, at least be prepared, by having an up to date virus removal and protection tool to keep those computer viruses at bay. You should also use your anti-virus software to scan the files that you just completed downloading. At least scan the download files before you run the executable program.

Finally, the best protection you can have for your computer is to back up your computer information on a regular basis. Some computer viruses as well as Trojan horses have been known to damage or delete computer files and a backup of your system may be the only way to recover from the damage.

Removal of computer viruses and protection of your computer can be easy to do and maintain if you use proper tools and take proper precautions.

Trojan Horses

Posted on March 2, 2008
Filed Under Trojan Horses, What is Adware?, What is Spyware?, spyware software programs | Leave a Comment


(click above to listen to article)
The Trojan Horse

Did you just invite a Trojan Horse inside your computer?

They are cunning and potentially destructive. Just like in real life, enemies come in all types of shapes and sizes. Like computer viruses and certain spyware and adware programs, trojan horses are a computer’s enemy.

If you’ve heard any terms related to computers, the term “Trojan Horse” is probably among them. So, what is a Trojan Horse? A Trojan Horse is a software program, that is usually disguised as a harmless computer application. Although destructive in nature, Trojan Horses do not replicate themselves like computer viruses, but they can be just as dangerous.

A still very common example of a Trojan Horse, is a software program promising to eliminate computer viruses from your computer. An advertisement will pop up on your screen uninvited telling you your computer was just infected and that they will rid your computer of the infection. If you take them up on their offer, you end up opening pandora’s box. Computer viruses end up being introduced into your computer instead.

Other variations are, receiving an email alerting you to a new virus threatening your computer and that they have the solution to your problem. They may ask you to download their “free special software” promising security and to eradicate your computer virus problem. The software may even look legitimate and from a reputable company. Whatever the case, if you accept their offer and click the link that they ask you to, you’ve just been infected. A big tip here is that you should only accept offers from reputable companies or websites, if you, yourself approached them - rather than they approaching you. It’s one thing if you find them. It’s quite another if they find you.

Earlier, I mentioned that Trojan Horses are potentially destructive. When a Trojan Horse is invited into your computer and becomes activated, a different number of things can happen. They can be more annoying than malicious. Annoying Trojans can choose to change your desktop settings or add stupid desktop icons. More serious and destructive Trojan Horses will erase or overwrite the data on your computer. It will corrupt files and spread other viruses or malware. The Trojan may even spy on the computer user and report your browsing habits, VISA numbers and even passwords to other people; all without you even knowing about it.

The Trojans you really must worry about are the ones that log your keystrokes to steal all your private and confidential information, (passwords, credit card numbers, bank account details). Obviously used with criminal intent, these Trojan Horses, will even install a backdoor into the computer system, allowing it to come and go as it pleases.

Trojan Horses along with viruses, adware and spyware, will always try to infiltrate your computer and compromise your privacy in some way, inocently or not. The trick is in keeping it under control. To increase your odds of not encountering a Trojan Horse, here are some guidelines to follow:

1. - Remain diligent and beware of your surroundings.
*** In other words, be careful where you surf. Trojans may infect your computer through rogue websites, probably setup by some disgruntled computer hacker. Other infection possibilities are through instant messaging, and emails with attachments. Only download files into your computer if you are completely sure, of its source.

2. - Ensure that your operating system is always up-to-date.
*** This is especially true if you have the Microsoft Windows operating system running on your computer.

3. - Install reliable anti-virus software.
*** There are free, paid, and trial package versions available. Do a Google search and experiment until you feel comfortable with the software. Important here is that you continually download any updates to catch any new Trojan Horses, computer viruses, and worms. Of extra benefit is to choose a anti-virus program that can scan e-mails.

4. - Consider installing a firewall.
*** A firewall is like a home security system in that it prevents any unauthorized use or access to your computer from outside interferrence. Firewalls do not eliminate computer viruses from your system, but if used together with regular operating system updates and reliable anti-virus software, it can provide additional security and protection for your computer.

Just like a home security system though, there are no guarantees that your security will not be compromised. However, by continually monitoring and improving the security of your computer, you can at least keep up to the onslaught. Whether it be Trojan Horses, computer viruses, spyware or adware, you will be able to regain and maintain control of your computer.

About Spyware and Adware

Posted on February 23, 2008
Filed Under Anti-Spyware Removal Tools, What is Adware?, What is Spyware? | Leave a Comment


(click above to listen to article)
About Adware and Spyware

There is still some confusion as to the differences between Spyware and Adware. Both can affect your computing experience in different ways. Both can either cause harm or be quite helpful depending on what they’re made for.

Spyware is a program that is usually downloaded to your computer from the internet. The Spyware program then sends information about the user without them even knowing about it. This happens every time they connect to the internet. In all probability spyware packages contain marketing related information to aid in your computing and not confidential information. However, there are some spyware programs that do that too.

Adware, on the other hand, is a an application software program, that make banners appear the entire the program is functioning. On top of that, the adware program can install certain components that transmits information about the computer user and the computer’s behavior. Unlike spyware programs, though, adware causes the user to be asked qestions when the program is being installed. In many cases, the adware application has dual functionality. Although the application has its main basic function, there is usually a secondary function, that may cause your computer to show commercials at intermittent intervals,which is downloaded periodically from certain internet servers.

Although some applications have both adware and spyware functions, this is not generally a true situation. Most times, spyware applications installed themselves, working without the user having any knowledge of it at all. This is in contrast to adware applications that cannot be installed without user consent.

For many years, there were free quality software applications installed and used freely. Complexity of the programs began to become greater and greater. Their costs eventually rose to the point of diminishing returns. One of the easiest ways was to deliver their adware/spyware program along with their main application programs. Also, many commercial programs became usable more freely and more legally. This was accomplished by passing the line to the adware category.

From harmless intentions, like showing commercials and stocking personal information about the user and his software or hardware configurations, developers had supplementary modules installed on target computers.

At one time the adware industry had their software downloaded and displayed. It has become more sophisticated lately. Now they use different configurations that alter your browser settings as well as montior your computer activity.

Among the effects that may happen after you install spyware and adware, the following are also things to watch for:

- Adding links to magazines.
- Adding new commercials on your web pages. Sometimes, it will also replace existing ones.
- Monitoring browser behavior for commercial purposes.
- Beware when they gain access to passwords and credit card numbers.
- These programs can cause your computer to slow down.
- In some cases the programs can also phone long distance telephone numbers, and you have to pay the bill.
- Changing the browser’s homepage (this has happend to me a few times already).
- Strange icons and new software might appear on your desktop.

Facts about Anti-Spyware Tools

Posted on February 16, 2008
Filed Under Anti-Spyware Removal Tools, What is Adware?, What is Spyware? | Leave a Comment


(click above to listen to article)
Some Facts about Anti Spyware Tools

As you probably know, Spyware programs can be installed in your computer system without your knowledge or even permission. You will find that many times, the spyware programs gather information regarding the user and even the computer itself. Many instances of spyware deliver advertisements straight to the user’s computer system. These programs can cause problems for you and your computer by performing different types of criminal activity. The proliference of this type of activity has led to a high demand for anti spyware tools.

So now, What is anti spyware?

Well, anything “anti” means to go against the grain. So if spyware causes you problems, then “anti-spyware” tries to fix those problems caused by spyware. There are countless anti spyware programs in the marketplace that are made to fight the growing threat made by spyware. Furthermore, anti spyware can also be used to indicate other tools or methods used to stop the spyware threat from infecting your computer.

There are two Different Categories of Anti Spyware to be concerned about - Software and Non-Software.

A) Software: – You will find many different types and brands of software that are designed to eliminate spyware in your system. Spyware programs are intended to eliminate spyware in two steps:

1) - Through scanning and elimination – Most anti spyware software is designed to scan computer systems for existing spyware code. The software cross-checks your system with a database. There are usually two options offered with the anti spyware program - automatic scanning at selected time intervals or manually by the user.

One drawback to this is that anti-spyware software tools are only effective as long as the database remains updated. An outdated database is useless against any new spyware code that infects your computer. This is very smart marketing because the user must pay a regular fee to keep their spyware software updated with the most recent information.

2) - Through Prevention: – It is always best to prevent a catasrophy rather than to fix it after the damage has been done. Better anti spyware software tools can be had that have features preventing spyware from being installed in the first place. Spyware infection is prevented by continually checking all data that enters your computer. When the anti-spyware software detects any anomalies, it stops or prevents the data from being downloaded.

B) Non-software: - There are services and methods available to computer users that can be classified as anti spyware. Included in the non-software category are:

1. - Anti-Spyware Services - There are companies in your city that can be found, that offer services to help fix your spyware problems. Anti-spyware service companies will clean your system of any known spyware. They may also secure your system from infiltration by spyware. These services are great for professional computer users who depend on their systems for their income as well as other advanced users who rely on properly working systems. However like anything else, you get what you pay for. The more service you need the more expensive it will be. For most users anti-spyware software that you can install in your computer by yourself will suffice. You can find decent software that will cost anywhere from $5.00 to $20.00 per year.

2. - Anti-Spyware Literature – Although I use anti-spyware software in my system, the knowledge I get from literature and education is my favorite way to prevent infection. Information and education is a type of anti spyware tool that aims to prevent spyware from infecting your system by making you aware of all the different aspects of spyware so that you can prepare your system effectively. You will find that you can still undertake most of your computing tasks more safely and effectively with this knowledge. This information will aid you further by advising you which tools to use when you experience spyware problems.

The more resources you have at your disposal, the more effective you will be at solving any spyware troubles you have. A combination of literature, education, methods and software tools will provide you with the ultimate anti-spyware toolkit to help you to continue to enjoy computer living.

An Introduction To Adware

Posted on February 9, 2008
Filed Under What is Adware?, What is Spyware? | Leave a Comment


(click above to listen to article)
An Introduction To Adware

The Underlying Revealing Truth About Adware

I do not want to tell you the good or bad about Adware, but only what it is and how to protect yourself. As an example - I use the Alexa toolbar from Alexa.com. It is considered an Adware program but I use it to help me with information about other sites so I can improve my own internet marketing efforts. On the otherhand, other people can also use Alexa to find out about my websites. The more you understand about Adware the more comfortable you will be with it.

There are many numerous advertisements all over the Internet about adware. Technical professionals are very familiar about adware. For the newbie or less skilled computer users out there, adware stands for advertising-supported software.

Adware is a form of spam. It automatically lets advertisements pop out of nowhere. Advertising ads may involve websites or products which you will be forced to view even if you do not want to, thus interupting your work. Adware invades your privacy and even though you have the latest anti-virus and anti-spyware program available, this does not mean you are completely safe. Many hard core users have at least three or four different anti-virus and anti-spyware programs running.

Adware programs are downloaded onto your computer and either displays or plays advertising messages to the user automatically. This happens even though other software applications may be running or are being used. Adware is software that is bundled up with other software programs. It is the computer programmer who usually makes the software as they are the ones who primarily work on the advertisement campaign. This can be a profitable venture and the income they get is usually enough motivation to continue.

In many ways, an adware program may work as a spyware program on steroids. When the adware program is installed on your computer, it launches it’s own tracking capability. So, when another computer user uses that particular computer, his activity is monitored as well. These personal details are then tracked, hacked, distributed, and sold to a third party without the users knowledge.

Adware can also force the user to visit certain websites even if they don’t want to. The adware program pops a window for the user to visit interfering with the users current activity. In this way, Adware works like a Spyware program in a sense that the information regarding the user is sent to an ad-serving firm.

I will go into more depth as to the more popular adware programs out there in future blog posts as this changes frequently. Suffice it to say that a number of adware removal software programs exist that can be used to help users protect themselves from the onslaught of adware programs. These adware removal programs help to block advertisements and then eliminate them from the computer system.

Adware removal software works by acting like police. It detects and eliminates the software code from your computer system. You should always safeguard your files as well as your own identity when using your computer. When you purchase adware removal software you should buy from a reputable company and you will usually pay for continuous updating of your program for the duration of your term.

There are many products on the market and many of them work fine. If you do a google search for adware or spyware removal programs, you will find a ton of good products and more get added daily.

One thing I have noticed is that the more popular a program is, the more probable it is for computer programmers to circumvent the software.

Spyware Software Programs

Posted on February 4, 2008
Filed Under Anti-Spyware Removal Tools, What is Adware?, What is Spyware?, spyware software programs | Leave a Comment


(click above to listen to article)
Spyware Software Programs

What is Spyware?

Have you ever noticed how Spyware software programs have changed the behavior of your computer system? Better yet - Has your computer system’s behavior changed because of Spyware without you noticing at all?

Spyware, and Adware for that matter, reminds me of public camera surveillance systems. There are many positive benefits when used to help the public. It’s a different matter when the boundries get pushed to the point of invasion of privacy.

So with that said, Spyware is a piece of software code, written into a program that becomes installed into your computer system by a third party. Often times this will happen when you download files or information from a website you visit. Once inside your system, it keeps track of internet activity. The data collected from the Spyware is relayed back to the third party.

The information is then used to supposedly make your web surfing and buying experience easier and more convenient. Even with these well intentions, problems can arise when too many spyware software programs get installed. Compound this with the fact that, determining what spyware programs you actually have on your computer can be difficult, because many of those third parties, disguise their spyware code so the user is unaware they’re even being infected.

The ideal solution then, is knowing what spyware programs you have on your computer so you can repair any problems easier.

The question becomes one of ethics and intent. The Good and Evil of Spyware! Spyware can be a friend or foe. If the program code was written by a computer hacker with criminal intentions, any personal and private information you put into your system could put you at risk of identity theft. Any passwords, credit card information, social security numbers and online banking should be done with due diligence.

Like the saying goes, one bad apple doesn’t make the whole basket bad. Most spyware software programs are installed in the consumer’s computer by online retailers who’s only intention is to learn about your buying habits to make your experience easier by targeting their advertising to your own wants and needs. Once you purchase their products they may even use that information to upsell other products that will enhance your experience.

The trick is in knowing where to draw the line. Too much of a good thing is NOT such a good thing! Too much can happen for those that like to download a lot of freeware and shareware programs. This can be the price paid for getting something for nothing.

There are things that you can do to, at least, keep these spyware software programs under control.

Firstly, be wary of opening any email or any attachments from unknown sources. If you don’t know them, don’t let them in the door. Once inside, the spyware program makes itself at home, and you can consider yourself invaded. If you are interested in what they have to say, go visit their site on your own, without you clicking on any of their links.

Another helpful resource in the battle against spyware are Firewalls. Like anti-spyware software programs, firewalls are security measures installed onto your computer to stop spyware in their tracks. The thing about spyware is that they just keep comming back. You can delete them all you want, another one is just lurking around the corner.

Before committing any hard earned funds on anti-spyware software, do some research on Google. See what results you get when you key in terms such as - “spyware removal tools” - “anti-spyware program” - best spyware removal software, etc. Many free programs as well as trial packages can be found. After experimenting with a number of these programs you will better able to decide the right one for you.

If your computer has gone too far over the edge and you are completely unable to purge the offending spyware software code, professional help may be in the calling.

This is where your Yellow Pages come in handy. Reputable local computer repair companies are more up to date on the current problems associated with spyware software programs and are more prepared to help you with your problem.