Step 2: Know where spyware comes from

Step 2: Know where spyware comes from

Spyware most commonly enters a computer one of two ways:
  1. It's loaded silently via a Web page, often through a pop-up window or a hidden frame. No warning is given that the page is attempting to install a program, unless the Web browser is specifically designed to warn the user of such things. (The first edition of

    Requires Free Membership to View

    Login

    When you register, you’ll also receive targeted alerts from my team of editorial writers and independent industry experts with the latest news, tips, and advice to help you do your job more efficiently and effectively. Our goal is to keep you informed on the hottest topics and biggest challenges faced by IT professionals today working with desktop management and security technologies.

    Margie Semilof, Editorial Director

    By submitting your registration information to SearchEnterpriseDesktop.com you agree to receive email communications from TechTarget and TechTarget partners. We encourage you to read our Privacy Policy which contains important disclosures about how we collect and use your registration and other information. If you reside outside of the United States, by submitting this registration information you consent to having your personal data transferred to and processed in the United States. Your use of SearchEnterpriseDesktop.com is governed by our Terms of Use. You may contact us at webmaster@TechTarget.com.

  1. Internet Explorer 6 and all previous versions of Internet Explorer were vulnerable in this fashion.)

  2. It's bundled with another software program, often as a way of generating advertising revenue to support that program's development.

The first of these two vectors is by far the most broadly used -- especially in organizations where desktops have not been correctly secured and browser plug-ins can install with impunity. The second isn't as widespread, but still popular, since you may install what you think is a free application and only find out later that it's harboring spyware.


How to remove spyware

 Home: Introduction
 Step 1: Get familiar with spyware now if not already
 Step 2: Know where spyware comes from
 Step 3: Recognize how spyware acts
 Step 4: Understand what damage spyware can cause
 Step 5: Choose tools to clean up spyware
 Step 6: Use these advanced techniques to clean up spyware
 Step 7: Install service packs to prevent spyware infections
 Step 8: Take additional initiatives to prevent spyware infections
 Step 9: Plan ahead for new spyware tactics

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Serdar Yegulalp
Serdar Yegulalp is the editor of the Windows 2000 Power Users Newsletter. Check it out for the latest advice and musings on the world of Windows network administrators -- and please share your thoughts as well!
Copyright 2005 TechTarget

This was first published in June 2005

Join the conversationComment

Share
Comments

    Results

    Contribute to the conversation

    All fields are required. Comments will appear at the bottom of the article.
    Back to top