Spyware usually ends up on a user’s machine because of actions taken while surfing the Internet. Clicking a button on a pop-up window, installing a software package and/or agreeing to upgrade the functionality of the web browser are some common ways you might accidentally install spyware on your computer. Computer users shouldn’t be concerned with how spyware gets installed however but what it does once it gets inside the machine.

Once Installed, Spyware Can Do a Number of Things

At a minimum, most spyware programs will run like a typical background application as soon as the computer is started. This hogs Ram and processor power which is why spyware is able to do a lot of damage even at a minimum.  

Additionally, web browsers can become unusable and slow due to the endless pop-up ads that spyware programs generate. Other damage spyware can wreak on your computer is;

Ø  Resets browser’s home page display to an ad every time the computer is opened

Ø  Redirects web searches, i.e. controls the search results

Ø  Modifies dynamically linked libraries (DLLs) that the computer uses which causes internet connectivity failures

Ø  At its worst, spyware records typed words, web browsing history, passwords and other private information

Like a bad guest or a tenant, spyware once installed is very hard to remove from a computer. It can change existing firewall settings, which makes it easier to damage pieces of software. If internet users connect through dial-up service, certain types of spyware will make sure the modem dials out to expensive, pay phone numbers.

Spyware Is Also Used By Hackers to Steal Affiliate Credits

Spyware programs are bad news for affiliate marketers as hackers can also use them to steal hard earned affiliate credits. Both Amazon and eBay have an affiliate tracking system in place that offers credit to the website that successfully directs traffic items to their item pages. Spyware is often used to steal that credit.

Types of "Ware" Other Than Spyware

Spyware isn’t the only threat computer users have to face as hackers can also send in;

v  Malware: a program that makes malicious modifications to computer and internet settings without express permission.

v  Adware: a program that is specifically designed to deliver unrequested advertising.

v  Stealware: a specific type of spyware that’s designed to capture clicks or web-site referral credits.

Making sure that your computer is well protected from all programs of malicious intent is easy for computer users, with Rockland County Computer Repair on the crime scene. Get in touch with a reliable computer repair technician today!