Spyware and Virus Help
Definition of :
Let’s start off with some basic definitions so we understand the problem a little better : Malware :
Software is considered malware based on the perceived intent of the creator rather than any particular features. Malware includes computer viruses, worms, trojan horses, most rootkits, spyware, dishonest adware, crimeware and other malicious and unwanted software. The expression is a general term used by computer professionals to mean a variety of forms of hostile, intrusive, or annoying software or program code. Computer virus
A computer virus is a piece of code that is secretly introduced into a system in order to corrupt it or destroy data. Often viruses are hidden in other programs or documents and when opened, the virus is let loose. Trojan horse (A Type of Virus)
This is a program that disguises itself as another program. Similar to a virus, these programs are hidden and cause an unwanted effect. They differ from viruses because they are normally not designed to replicate like a virus. Worm (A Type of Virus)
This is a special type of virus that spreads without any user interaction, typically by exploiting a flaw in popular software. Spyware
This is software that secretly gathers information about a user while he/she navigates the Internet. This information is normally used for advertising purposes. Spyware can also gather information about email addresses and even passwords and credit card numbers. Keylogger
This involves the capturing of information that you type on the keyboard by installed hardware. This is often used by fraudsters to capture personal details including passwords. Rootkit
A program that fraudulently gains or maintains administrator level access that may also execute in a manner that prevents detection. Once a program has gained access, it can be used to monitor traffic and keystrokes; create a backdoor into the system for the hacker's use; alter log files; attack other machines on the network; and alter existing system tools to circumvent detection. Rootkit commands replace original system command to run malicious commands chosen by the attacker and to hide the presence of the Rootkit on the system by modifying the results returned by suppressing all evidence of the presence of the Rootkit.
Symptoms of Spyware / Virus : Depending on the type of pest that plagues your computer, it may be very easy to detect an infection. That's the good news. The bad news is some of the most dangerous infections, especially from RATS or spyware, can be very difficult to detect. That's why most of the checking and removing of pests is done with software designed to do just that. Nevertheless, there are some general symptoms you should know. Your Computer Has a Mind of Its Own
Spyware, trojans and other pests contact other computers, and each pest is a program of its own, therefore they use system resources such as CPU cycles, memory and an Internet connection. Slow Computer
There are several reasons your computer may be running slow, but if you use it on a regular basis, then you're familiar with its noises, hang-ups and how it reacts. Older computers tend to run slower. Some applications cause computers to run slower. Computers are machines, they do not have moods. A sudden change in how your computer is running could be a sign of spyware or adware. E-Mail Symptoms
If you're getting a lot of bounced back mail and see evidence of e-mails being sent without your knowledge, then it's possible that trojan spamware has found its way onto your computer. Spamware is a trojan that can turn your computer into a spam launching pad and create headaches for unknowing computer users, especially if a virus is sent. Even if your computer is not being used to send spam, trojans can steal a copy of your e-mail address book and send it back to a spammer. Noises, Bells and Whistles
Victims of some trojans report CD drives opening and shutting, or programs opening and closing. Is your hard drive whirling away when you're not doing anything? Is there an unknown icon in your Windows system tray (lower right corner of your screen)? If you have an external modem, there may be lights indicating data tranfers blinking when you're not doing anything online. These are all signs a program may be up to no good in the background. Offline Symptoms
Keyboard loggers can capture passwords and user names, so if the bank, brokerage or credit card accounts you access online appear to have been tampered with, your computer may be a place to start looking for clues. User names and passwords to e-mail and Web-based applications are also vulnerable.
The Solution : Those are the definitions of the enemy. Now let’s understand what the solutions are : Anti-spyware program
This is a program that protects your PC against spyware and helps to keep your computer and personal details secure. Anti-virus software
This is software that is designed to detect viruses and prevent them from infecting your machine. Often these viruses are transmitted via email.
Recommended Tools : Our Services : We offer a complete set of services to detect, remove and repair your system as well as installing protection from future infections and a healthy maintenance schedule. You can check out those services here. Sometimes if a system is badly infected, even though you may rid the system of pests, there is already too much damage done to the Windows installation and you may have continual problems. In this case a fresh install of Windows is always recommended.
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