1. Installed Applications
You know that program you installed so that you can download MP3’s for free? Spyware installs with most of these types of applications. File sharing programs have a notorious reputation for installing spyware. Applications that add little features to your computer install spyware
as well. Some examples are programs that:
- graphics such as smile faces and hearts to your email.
- Track the weather on your desktop.
- Manage your desktop wallpaper or other graphics themes on
your computer. - Video games.
- Applications that claim to clean spyware.
2. Email
Just like viruses, spyware can be delivered via email. They usually come as file attachments, but they can also load automatically just by opening the email. Always check that you have the latest updates and patches for your email client.
3. Web Sites
Web sites can enable scripts that install spyware on your PC without you even knowing it. Browser developers usually try to combat this with updates, but sometimes users grant permission to the installation without even knowing they are doing so.
The only thing you can do to prevent yourself from being infected with spyware is to only trust programs, email and web sites that you are familiar with. Don't install anything onto your computer that you haven't read a good review of form a reputable publication. Don't open
attachments from email addresses you don't know. Avoid web sites that look shady. You usually can get a good sense whether a web site is reputable or not just based on the look of it. Banner ads and popups everywhere on a site is usually a good indicator of a bad web site.
This article is featured at Technipages where you can find articles and downloads related to anything technical.
Submit your own technical article or post a message at the Computer Help Forum to obtain free computer help.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Martin_Wayne
http://EzineArticles.com/?Where-Does-Spyware-Come-From?&id=55957
No comments:
Post a Comment