SPYWARE 2005-06 Computer Applications L6D, LAM Siu Fai (18)
Transcript of SPYWARE 2005-06 Computer Applications L6D, LAM Siu Fai (18)
Approximately 90% of all computers worldwide that use the Internet have been -----or currently are----- infected with spyware.
Symptoms of Spyware Infection
• Home page hijack– ‘home page’ changed
without users’ notice
• New bookmarks– new web links are
added to computer
• Unusual icons– strange shortcuts
Symptoms of Spyware Infection
• Automatic redialing– connect to the Internet
via dial-up connection
• Abnormal activity– send/receive large
amount of data
• Uninvited toolbars– strange toolbars have
been added
How does spyware infect a computer?
• Internet advertisement
• File-sharing software• Pirated software• Fake spyware-
removal programs• E-mail attachments• Hackers
What does spyware do?
• Installation of ‘keystroke logging’ program
• Hijack internet browser / homepage
• Track Internet-surfing habits
• Hogs system’s memory, CPU cycles & Internet bandwidth
• Creates its own files, cookies, DDLs, registry key…
If you think your computer is infected with spyware
• Don’t take chances!
• Scan and remove them immediately
• Steps– download 2 spyware-removal programs– install and update separately– scan the entire computer– remove or quarantine the found spyware– repeat with another program
Anti-spyware programs
• 2 types:
• reactive programs can remove spyware that already lurks on the computer
• proactive programs can prevent entry of spyware by using a virtual shield
Reactive anti-spyware programs
• Ad-Aware free version
• www.lavasoftusa.com
• Spybot search and destroy
• www.safer-networking.org
Proactive anti-spyware programs
• spy sweeper• www.webroot.com
• etrust pestpatrol• www.ca.com
• McAfee antispyware• www.mcafee.com