Spyware, adware, and malware are terms we have all heard of and most of us probably have at least some basic knowledge and understanding of what they mean. However, how many of us are actually properly protecting our computers against such threats? Keeping your computer up to date security wise can become rather ware-ing (a very bad pun, probably the worst you’ve ever heard, but there you have it.).
Let’s have a quick look at what spyware is, how you get it, and what can be done to prevent it from infesting your computer.
Spyware is nasty software that is installed furtively on your computer, often without your knowledge or permission. Spyware has come a long way from simply being a minor setback. It has the ability to not only monitor your actions on the computer but take partial control over it as well. Spyware can redirect your web browser activity (high-jacking), install unwanted software, and watch what you’re doing on the computer. It will send you annoying pop-ups and can even have the ability to record your keystrokes. Not surprisingly, the words “identity theft” pop into my head here. As you can see, it’s not only a frustrating dilemma, spyware has a great potential to do serious damage to your computer, as well as your finances.
How does spyware slither its way into your computer? There are a lot of ways. One way is what I like to call “click-itch,” that is, the urge to click on unknown links that arrive via email, via popup windows, via unknown websites, and so on. Another way is by downloading and installing software when you don’t know exactly what it is or where it comes from. Sure, it sounds almost too good to be true that you can get software for free. Guess what? It probably is. No-cost software can be riddled with spyware. If you don’t have your browser’s security settings at a sufficient level, it won’t detect unauthorized downloads. This means that when you’re surfing the web, your computer can be “told” by a tainted site to download the spyware, and like anything brainless, it does as it’s instructed to do unless informed not to beforehand. This also means it would be a good idea to keep your browser updated. Spyware can also find its way onto your computer via vulnerabilities in its operating system and programs, especially if you don’t quickly apply patches and updates.
Spyware is nasty. Besides equipping your computer with a firewall to ward off spyware, it’s an excellent idea to scan your computer for spyware on a regular basis and take necessary action to remove it. Enter SpyEraser. “SpyEraser combines the latest technologies with pro-active online scanning to ensure the best possible protection so you can enjoy peace of mind while using your computer for what you like doing best. SpyEraser updates daily and will keep your system clean, avoid the risk of system crashes and — most importantly — stay malware free.” This is what Uniblue Systems, the company that makes SpyEraser, claims on its website. This review will examine this statement and put SpyEraser to the test.
