Spyware is malicious software that gets installed on a user's computer without their consent.
Some spyware programs may be viewed as more of an annoyance, hijacking and redirecting browsers, slowing down internet connections and causing annoying pop-up ads to come up.
Other programs however, are designed with much more sinister prospects in mind.
These programs can collect personal information such as bank account numbers and email passwords.
Some can even leave a backdoor into your computer system that makes it vulnerable to hackers.
Because spyware usually infects without any warning you have to be aware of the sites and places you visit online to prevent infections.
1.
E-mail: Everyone checks their e-mail, most several times a day, making e-mail one of the most vulnerable places where you can get spyware.
To reduce the risk, use some common sense when checking email messages.
Avoid opening email and attachments from names you don't recognize, even previewing an infected email can be enough to allow the spyware to get a foot hold onto your computer.
Attachments from friends and family could also be a problem, especially if they are sending chain letter like mailings that are passed around all over the internet.
If your job involves using your computer and e-mail, you might have to open attachments.
Set up an email only for work, give out the email address exclusively for this purpose and use a popular antivirus program to scan all emails before opening.
2.
Software Downloads: Free screensavers, games, shareware, freeware and other similar applications are often packed full of spyware.
Be cautious and avoid downloading from web sites or places you have never heard of.
Instead, look for a reputable trusted site to download applications from.
Take time to always read the End User License Agreement, before agreeing to download.
Many free products are combined with spyware but this information is hidden in the fine print of these technical documents.
3.
Unsafe Internet Browsing: Simply browsing Web sites online can also open your system up to spyware.
Known as "drive-by downloads" just visiting these Web sites can result in spyware infections.
Porn or adult web sites, game hints or cheat sites and software crack sites are among those that need to be avoided.
4.
Pop-ups or windows that appear when visiting some Web sites are often spyware in disguise.
Some will tell you that you have spyware installed and to click the link in order to get help.
Never click these links and make a note of what site you were visiting so you can keep from returning.
You should also change your browser settings to disable all pop-up ads.
5.
Peer to Peer Programs: Peer-to-peer (P2P) and file sharing program link multiple users together as they swap movies, music, TV shows, games, software and more.
Though users may enjoy getting free downloads they pay for it with the risk of spyware.
With millions of users, connecting to one central server and sharing files, even computer savvy individuals get spyware using P2P programs.
Spyware come directly from installing the P2P client or when downloading files on the server.
Avoid P2P programs is the best protection against spyware.