Common
Symptoms of Spyware
While it is true that not all spyware operates in
the same way, spyware applications do affect
computers in relatively the same manner. If you are
experiencing one or more of these symptoms, chances
are you have multiple spyware infestations
Decreased System Performance
If your computer is running slower than it used to
or if you are experiencing frequent system freezing
or crashing, chances are it is caused by spyware.
Hijacked Browsers
If your homepage is constantly changing or if you
find yourself being directed to websites that you
had no intention of visiting, spyware is most likely
the culprit. Spyware applications can change your
settings to reflect the homepage of its choosing and
can hijack your web-browsing experience, taking you
to websites you never asked to visit.
Pop-Up Ad Attacks
If you feel like you're drowning in pop-up ads, you
probably have spyware to thank for it. Many spyware
programs track your Internet activity and then
display pop-up ads based on your browsing habits.
Not only are these pop-up ads invasive and annoying,
they also cause serious issues with system stability
and performance.
Program Errors
If you experience frequent program errors or if one
or more of your programs has become disabled, spyware may be the reason. It's not uncommon for a
spyware application to completely disable a program
or even an entire computer.
Ghostlike Computer Activity
If it feels like a ghost has access to your
computer, you may be half right. Spyware
infestations can result in an unauthorized party
having complete control over your system, allowing
them to open programs, delete files and play all
types of havoc with your system.
Unauthorized Downloads Top of page
If programs are being downloaded to your system
without your authorization or consent, spyware is
probably to blame. Spyware programs can result in
the unauthorized download of other malware
applications, putting you at even further risk than
you were initially..
Unauthorized Phone Calls Top of page
Certain spyware programs can act as dialers, making
phone calls to pay-per-minute numbers and
international destinations. This can take up
valuable system resources, but it can also result in
significant charges on your phone bill, sometimes
amounting to hundreds of dollars in a single month.
Internet Interruptions Top of page
If your connectivity to the Internet is sporadically
interrupted, it's possible that spyware is
interfering with your connection. The only way to
restore your connection stability is to utilize an
effective anti-spyware application.
Commercial RAT
A Commercial RAT application (or Remote
Administration Tool) is a technology that is used by
system administrators to control the computers
within their networks. When a Commercial RAT program
falls into the wrong hands, it can quickly become a
powerful spyware application. If a hacker installs a
commercial RAT program on your system, that person
can shut down programs, delete your files and steal
all of the information on your hard drive.
P2P Networks
P2P (or Peer to Peer) networks have become extremely
popular over the past decade. These networks allow
computer users to share files and computer programs
across the Internet. While P2P networks have indeed
proven to be a valuable resource, they can also pose
a serious spyware threat. Many of the files and
programs available for download from these networks
come bundled with spyware applications. The minute
you download the file, you infect yourself and put
your information and your privacy at risk.
Rogue Anti-Spyware
Rogue anti-spyware applications mislead consumers
into believing the software will protect them from
spyware when, in fact, these programs are either
outdated and offer no protection or act as spyware
programs themselves. Many of the "free" anti-spyware
programs found on the web are actually rogue anti-spyware
programs.
Tracking Cookies
A Trojan application works much like the Trojan
horse of Troy. While it seems like a harmless
application when you install it, the Trojan can
cause serious damage once it has infiltrated your
system. Trojans usually fall into one of seven
different categories including proxy Trojans,
destructive Trojans, data sending Trojans, DoS
Trojans, remote access Trojans, security disabler
Trojans and FTP Trojans.
The only way to ensure that you are protected from
these various spyware threats is through the use of
a comprehensive anti-spyware product like
AntiSpyware® 2008. Install AntiSpyware® 2008 right
now to see exactly which spyware threats you are
already infected with and to reduce your risk of
future infestations.
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AntiSpyware 2008
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your PC. By effectively eliminating all existing occurrences
of harmful spyware and preventing the success of future
spyware attacks, AntiSpyware 2008 is taking spyware
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