Spyware Stealthy and Deadly By Aylmer Or Spyware
Spyware: Stealthy and Deadly By Aylmer Or
Spyware: Stealthy and Deadly • • • Origin What is Spyware? Types of Spyware How does it work? Solution / Prevention Questions
Origin • Surfaced on the internet through many “free programs” - “No such thing as a free lunch” - P 2 P file-sharing programs like Kazaa – Programs are implemented with tracking software, hence the name. • Infected Websites • Pop Up ads
What is Spyware? • Spyware is Internet jargon for Advertising Supported software (Adware). • Little nasty programs that invade your computer without you knowing. • They allow the transfer of personal info over the internet, modify or destroy personal files or attempt to take over the computer system.
Types of Spyware • Tracking cookies • Browser Hijackers • Monitoring Software / Hardware - Examples : Kazaa, Gator, Morpheous, Emule. . etc - Examples: pop up ads when not on internet, home page is changed, new shortcuts/toolbars. etc - Examples: Keyloggers, Chat loggers, Pw Recorders. etc
How does it Work? • Tracking Cookies • Works by installing programs on your system to store your personal information using cookies) • Tracks your personal info, hence the name. • Credit card numbers, passwords, usernames. . . etc goes to companies or individuals. • Browser Hijackers • uses similar tracking component technology to lurk into your computer without you knowing • Monitoring Software / Hardware • uses software or hardware place on your computer to track the letters you type or take snapshots of it.
Solution / Prevention • Do not attempt to REMOVE SPYWARE yourself. • Many items are connected to system files or programs or all over the place. • Use Spyware Removal Software • Example : Ad-Aware, Spybot S&D • Prevention: – Anti Spyware Software – Change Internet Browser: Use Mozilla (http: //www. mozilla. org) or Avant Browser (http: //www. avantbrowser. com) – Increase IE Security – Be Smart and use Common Sense (Don’t Install GATOR!!!)
Questions?
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