Virus Removal - Fixing the Facebook Virus

This guide will help you identify Facebook malware so you can avoid infection and will also provide tips on how to remove malware once you've been infected.

What To Watch Out For
One example of Facebook malware I've recently observed are fake notifications that say somebody has "posted something on your wall" or "tagged a video of you", which you can see in the image below. Notice that the icon next to the notification appears strange, but many malicious applications utilize standard notification icons which makes them hard to spot.

These applications also typically bear unassuming names like "Comments" or "Livefeed" which sound similar enough to features currently used on Facebook that they do not arouse much suspicion.

If you click a notification and are taken to a page asking for access to your profile, the most important thing to remember is never click allow. Most Facebook malware can only interact with your account if you click the allow button, so only click it if you are absolutely sure you want to use the application.

If you see a suspicious notification and want to verify its legitimacy, visit your profile directly by clicking the Profile button at the top of Facebook rather than clicking the link in the notification. If you can't find a corresponding post on the wall, click the X on the false notification and select "Report Spam" immediately.

What To Do If Infected
If you happened to click a strange link on Facebook or accidentally allowed an application that appeared to be malicious, follow these steps right away to revoke its access and protect your account.
Click the Applications button in the bottom left corner of Facebook and select Edit Applications.

If you have the new version of Facebook, this option can be found under Account (in the top right) then click Application Settings.
Try to locate the application you interacted with. In my case, it was a fake application called "Comments", but I've seen others listed as "Feed". Click the X to the right of the application then click Remove to disable it.
The application will no longer be able to interact with your profile once you have removed it this way.

Extra Precautions
It doesn't hurt to follow the steps in the previous section even if you think you haven't been infected. Browse through your list of applications that have access to your profile and remove any that you are not currently using.
If you see fake notifications from a friend, you can manually block that application to make sure you aren't accidentally infected. To do this, visit the application's homepage on Facebook (remembering not to click the Allow button) and click Block Application. This will completely stop the application from interacting with your profile at all.

When you receive a fake notification from a friend, let them know about it right away and have them follow the steps presented in this guide. The longer they are infected, the more time the malicious application will have to spread itself.

Best Practices
Malicious applications won't always follow the methods I've described in this article, so the best defense you can have is to always be aware of your digital environment. I'll leave you with a few tips for staying safe on social networks:
Don't assume links and messages from friends are safe: Malware often takes advantage of the fact that you trust your friends. Keep an eye on links and messages from friends, and if in doubt, ask them if they actually sent you something. Most of the time they will have no idea their account has been spamming their friends.

Watch the links you click: Fake applications put a lot of effort into looking legitimate, but many of them still carry tell-tale signs of being malicious. If you're suspicious of a link, hold your mouse over it and look at the URL in your browser's status bar. If the URL looks strange (i.e. long strings of random characters or pointing to a site outside of Facebook), think twice before clicking it.

Expand shortened links: Short links are very popular on social networks, making it easier to share URLs. The downside is that you don't necessarily know where the link will take you, so consider previewing your short URLs before clicking.

If it's too good to be true, it probably is: If see a link or message on Facebook that claims you can monitor who views your profile or provide other enticing information, there's a good chance it's a trap trying to lure you in.
Stay updated - Many applications exploit vulnerabilities in your browser or operating system to gain access to your information. Stay safe by keeping your browser up-to-date and installing operating system updates when they are released.

If you've spotted a malicious application or have an experience involving Facebook malware, share it with us in the comments - those experiences can be invaluable for helping others stay safe in the future. If you have any other tips for staying safe on social networks, let us know!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6908888

5 Tips for Preventing Virus Attacks on Your Computer

1. Keep your signature files up to date:
On most virus removal programs, there is a component that will check for virus signature updates at regular intervals when your computer is connected to the internet. You may either get a prompt to update your signature files, or a status indicator will say that the current signature file is not up to date. You can check for signature updates manually by right clicking on most antivirus icons in the lower right corner of your desktop.

2. Your toolbars on your browser need to be kept at a minimum.
Toolbars generally are not a good thing to install. Some toolbars, when installed, are hard to get rid of. One example is Babylon, which is a toolbar that lingers on your computer when you thought you got rid of it. Toolbars can be installed in Internet Explorer, Firefox, Google Chrome and more. Toolbars sometimes come bundled with other software that you install on your computer. Toolbars are stealthy. They get installed in your browser, then suddenly, your whole browsing experience has been hijacked. The next time your computer is infected with spyware or viruses and you've got 4 or more toolbars, Eliminate the toolbars, and run a virus scan to see if that eliminated the problem.

3. Do research on new programs before downloading them.
Some viruses come in the form of a program that you are downloading from a seemingly friendly internet web site; some programs that say they can magically fix your computer can also cause your system to crash. By researching the name of the web site that provides a download and by researching the name of the exe, zip, tar or whatever file extension it has in Google before you actually use it, you may find that the program has been mentioned as a possible virus, worm, or malware. Some driver downloads, pornographic web sites, and legitimate looking adware removal programs have been known to be viruses in disguise. A Trojan horse is a legitimate looking program that does your computer harm. The AVG antivirus logo has been copied onto Trojan horse programs and users have had a serious virus attack. Virus removal programs such as AntiVirus Live, Advanced Virus Remover are also programs that disguise themselves as legitimate programs. These programs will hold your computer hostage until you pay ransom money. Don't pay, because the problem will only get worse, and not better.

4. Do virus scans on your computer on a regular basis.
A virus scan is very important to do on your computer on a regular basis, but more often than a periodic PC Tune up. It is recommended to do a virus scan at least once a week, if not every day, according to your internet use and the number of critical files on your pc. Kaspersky, Mcafee, Trendmicro all are some of the companies that have a free web scanner that will run on your computer to detect viruses. When you perform a virus scan, your antivirus program searches your system for virus signatures that are attached to executable programs and applications, such as email clients. A virus scanner can search all executables when a system is booted or scan a file only when a change is made to the file because some viruses will change your computer files.

5. Avoid downloading content from P2P file sharing sites.
 Peer-to-Peer networking, known as P2P, is similar in concept to a browser. It is an application that runs on your PC and allows sharing of files. Napster and Lime wire used to be two of the most popular peer-to-peer application programs, sharing MP3 music files, until they were shut down by the U.S. Justice Department. Today, favorites like Emule, Gnutella, Morpheus, Bearshare, and Kazaa share center stage. There are many virus programs that spread through various P2P networks, so by avoiding downloading P2P software, you will have less problems with malware and viruses. With the massive popularity of P2P file sharing also comes the risks of embedded adware / spyw3are in client distributions. A recent scan by the Center for information security found spyware and pests in Kazaa, Edonkey, Morpheous, and Bearshare. The vulnerabilities included active content and embedded url's, and vulnerabilities in the media reader. It is suggested that you read the EULA's or End user license agreements.

James Bell

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6919841

3 Reasons Microsoft Security Essentials Is The Best

You get home from a hard days work, and you sit down to relax by starting up your computer and surfing the web. Your friend sends you an email with an interesting link, and writes that you really need to click this link. The next thing you know, your computer starts acting crazy and a sickening feeling starts in the pit of your stomach, you are infected.

But this scenario does not have to happen to you, not when Microsoft Security Essentials is available as a free download. The internet is not a safe place, and you definitely need protection before opening that web browser or email message.

First Reason Is It Is Free And Simple To Use
The only real requirement to run Microsoft Security Essentials is that your PC must be running genuine Windows, the application will need to verify that your Windows key is genuine before you download and run the free application. Once that is done, the application can be installed and it will automatically perform updates and a scan once it is installed.

This antivirus application is simple to use, it actually performs all of its future updates and scans in the background and updates itself automatically. You don't have to do anything, it is designed to run when the computer is idle, so this antivirus application will not slow you down or bog down your applications.

Second Reason Is The Color Coded Security Status Icon
Once you have installed Microsoft Security Essentials, the icon in the task bar will keep you informed of the security status of your computer. Green means everything is ok, red or yellow lets you know there are problems. The application will actually tell you what to do from the icon, you don't even have to open the application from the Program Files.

Microsoft Security Essentials will automatically update in the background, downloading the latest virus definitions seamlessly, you won't even know its working in the background to keep your computer safe. And that old computer of yours that you stopped using a long time ago can also run this friendly application and get back out on the web.

Third Reason Is It's Outstanding Features

• Instant Protection: Runs all the time in the background.
• Scans Your Computer: Without bogging it down.
• Cleans Your Operating System: Removes unwanted virus and spyware.
• Integrates With Your Windows Firewall: No firewall configuration issues.

When you are trying to relax and surf the internet, worrying about your computer becoming infected will no longer be a problem, and you have now discovered 3 reasons Microsoft Security Essentials is your best antivirus protection. It offers outstanding features like instant protection and real-time scanning without bogging down your computer.

It also will alert you with a color-coded status icon in the task bar, warning you that there is an issue that requires your intervention. But I believe the best reason is the price and its simplicity of use. You simply install this application and it does the rest, allowing you to surf the web with peace of mind knowing you are protected.

Gene Smyth is the marketing manager for a great telescope resource website called Best Telescopes reviews.
Gene has over 10 years experience in the technology industry and his main hobby is backyard astronomy. He feels that this would be an awesome family activity that not only will bring your family closer together, but may spark an avid interest in science that will follow your children for the rest of their life.
If you don't know the difference between a Reflector and a Refractor, discover more about the best telescopes, the differences between each type, and more at:
http://besttelescopesreviews.net

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6935783

Ropes to Cleaning Spyware

Learning the Ropes to Cleaning Spyware

The widespread unawareness of computer users about spyware has resulted in nearly every computer being infected with the malicious codes unknowingly to users who then experience declines in their computer’s performance and a string of pop up ads. Even new computers are infected with spyware unless its system is immediately equipped with some sort of spyware blocker or scanning tool that is run regularly. The most aggressive anti-virus software cannot guard your computer against spyware, it is necessary to have spyware specific software to rid your system of any of the privacy invasive files.

Spyware can be picked up easily through emails and e-cards. By visiting certain sites you also have spyware installed and commonly users allow spyware in by downloading freeware or shareware that installs spyware upon your agreement to the user license. The most common type of spyware is that which causes your computer to slow once many spyware applications have built up and infected several programs. Another result of this type of spyware is annoying pop ups appearing almost non stop. Much more malicious spyware is used by individual intruders or hackers who collect private information such as credit card and social security numbers as well as passwords and bank accounts. They use this information for identity theft and other harmful acts.

To get rid of spyware find a trusted and highly effective scan and removal tool and run it regularly. Use more than one tool together so you are sure to catch all the infections. Once you have scanned your computer and fixed the spyware infected files the computer’s performance should impress you, demonstrating how harmful even benign spyware can be.

Spyware Removal - For A More Secured Network

Virus threats disrupt the IT world striking suddenly with the aim to wipe off the data and operation. But today spywares have replaced them, through which important details like financial and credit card information is virtually stolen without the consent of the user. It serves as a constant threat to both business as well as personal online operations which might lead to a leak in credit card details or password related to any banking or financial dealings. Thus the need for newer and cost effective spyware removal software became imperative.

What is a spyware? Why is it considered a threat to privacy? How can it be effectively removed? The answer to all these mind-blowing questions rests in one simple fact called - anti-spyware. The malicious qualities of the spyware softwares are many. The reason for these software sneaking into our systems are also many. Another shocking fact is that spyware removal is not that easy. Whenever you try to remove they will efficiently pop up during your next start up. It is a pain in the neck especially when you operate in sectors like banking or commerce.

Even for a personal user these spywares cause tremendous problems, some of them are even acclaimed as criminal offence. The credit card and pin number details are silently copied through these softwares and generally misused leaving the user stranded. Many spywares however just act, as a spy to watch out for the frequently visited web sites and other search engine operation needed for an advertisement firm or most probably benefiting a survey. However, Spyware protection is a necessity whatever the reason may be.

A quality spyware cleaner might help protect your computer from effective spyware removal. Like all other anti virus softwares one needs to frequently update these spyware removal softwares to tackle the constant invent of new and improved spyware advent. Anti spywares might protect your computer from infinite pop ups that you encounter while browsing. It even blocks other malicious software downloads or warns the user of a possible threat. It also deals with the security threat thereby ensuring a safe and secured working environment.

For the real time protection of your personal details and other accounting facts it's always a great option pick to get yourself a good spyware removal software. It's a good investment keeping in mind the fact that it is going to protect you from strangers hackneying your personal and more important details without your consent or approval. It's as good as a preplanned theft on which you have no control. It's also a criminal offence and highly punishable under law. Awareness is the first step towards clarity. So, with the better armed with knowledge about spyware, you should go ahead and get for yourself effective software for spyware removal.

Spyware Removal Online is an online resource, providing in-depth information about Anti Spyware software, which is an essential tool to keep your system free of dangerous spywares, protecting your privacy and your PC. Here you will get vast technical information to remove spyware.

Spyware and Adware is Wrecking Havoc on Your Computer

Overview As technology in the software field advances so does the maliciousness of unscrupulous individuals in the world. When things become easier with new developments there are also its unwanted disadvantages and this is nowhere but true in today's most talked about industry of software.

The world of internet is spreading at an unprecedented pace and thousands and millions of individuals are being connected together and so are their computers. If the internet has made things easier, it has also become an easy way for malicious people to spread their harmful development in software in the form of Adware and Spyware. For many the problem of Adware and Spyware might be a regular one but for those unsuspecting individuals who are not aware of such harmful things there is nothing but havoc on their computers. The more improvements in technology the more challenges one has to face. Most of the information exchange in the world today takes place through internet and it is very urgent to protect the system from viruses, hackers, Spyware, and other such cyber threats.

The internet is the best means for spreading the programmes of Spyware and Adware because through the internet these harmful software programmes can reach to millions of computers, hijack the useful and sensitive information about the users and use it for personal gains of the programme creator. A computer affected by Spyware and Adware is the most vulnerable and robs the user of personal information that is entered on the computer or any other internet activities like entering the credit card number, password and other such sensitive information. It thus always becomes important for the users to be as careful as possible before using the internet and take prevention with the different means of tackling the malice of Adware/Spyware.

What is Spyware?

In order to tackle the menace of Spyware one has to get familiar with the idea of what Spyware is. Spyware is nothing but a computer programme that sits on the user's computer without their knowledge. The name itself indicates the working of Spyware. Spyware is automatically installed on the user's computer and spies on the information the user types on their machines. These Spyware are programmed in such a way that once they detect the sensitive information they can send the sensitive and personal information of the user to its creator. In one way, Spyware can be very useful because it lets the user and software professionals know the flaws in the system and make improvements accordingly so that the flaws can be removed.

A study undertaken by the National Cyber-Security Alliance and AOL showed that as much as sixty-one percent systems are infected by the Spyware and ninety two percent of users were not even aware that their system was taken over by the Spyware. This statistics is the indication of the surreptious nature of Spyware. Although partial control of the system is generally found with, Spyware but its effects can be far more dangerous for the users. Passwords for the bank account of the users have been spied and used by others with the use of Spyware and have cost them losses ranging in thousands of dollars. Protection from Spyware The systems running on the Windows OS are particularly vulnerable to the attacks of Spyware because the Internet Explorer of Windows is closely integrated with the OS and the OS is the widely used platform for most of the computers in the world. Internet is the main place to infect systems with Spyware and hence one must use all the precautions ranging from firewall activation to anti-Spyware programmes so that the Spyware can be prevented from infecting the system.

When the user is surfing on the internet, they must take all the care before entering their sensitive information. One should never download freeware or shareware that is offered by many sites because it might contain a Spyware programme. One should always clean cookies and the history items from the system because the Spyware can intrude in the system through these means. Adware Adware like Spyware is the same kind of software that is installed on the user 's computer without their knowledge. Adware is also known as advertising supported software and its working is somewhat different from the Spyware. The Adware programme runs all on its own when the user uses their system, it can run, show and it even downloads advertising items without the users wanting it.

At times, an Adware can as well have a Spyware in it thus making the system of the user more vulnerable for data theft. Unscrupulous programmers integrate Adware in their software packages and keep on updating it, Adware is generally found in shareware. Adware mainly supports advertising needs and some of the notorious Adware programmes include, cursor mania, Top Moxie, clip genie, gator, crazy girls, Spyware doctor, hotbar, comet cursor, errorsafe, ICQ and many more. Though Adware combined with Spyware can be very ruinous Adware alone is not as harmful as Spyware and one can get enough protection from it. Adware Safety Tips Detecting Adware and Spyware manually is a great time consuming process but one can run the anti-Spyware and Adware programmes on their systems and get rid of the nuisance.

The first thing one can do to avoid these malicious programmes is to surf the internet in a secured way with the enabled firewall. The anti-Adware programmes can detect, keep in isolation, and remove the harmful programmes. Since, the Windows OS is the widely used OS in the world it is the most vulnerable platform for Adware and Spyware. In order to prevent Adware infiltration into the system one can use robust OS like Linux and Mac OS X. One should not as well have many toolbars installed in the browser because it can not only slow down the browser but also invite Adware. Regular security and OS updates are always recommended in the prevention tips for Adware. One can as well use alternative secure browsers like Mozilla Firefox, Opera, or Safari so that the Adware do not intrude in the system.

Kim Adair is a Affiliate marketer, eBook Author, and FOREX trader who runs a blog to help anyone make money online! You can check it out over at http://www.affiliatecombat.com

Spyware - Are You Safe Online?

Arguably one of the greatest inventions the world has ever known. The internet has opened up the business world; it allows people to communicate across vast distances, cheaper and easier than ever before. There is a world of information at your finger tips. More and more people are getting connected and taking advantage of the great wealth afforded by the net. There are however some fairly serious down sides, identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes. By taking advantage of unprotected surfers, stealing their personal details, hackers can run up huge bills in someone else's name and walk away undetected.

They say 90% of all PCs are infected with some form of spyware. Spyware is simply a little piece of software that installs itself onto your PC and literally spies on anything you do online. One way, the creators of such software nasties, are using to deliver their cargo is exploiting the popularity of Internet video clips, piggy backing on the latest funny videos. Spyware comes in many guises, Mal-ware, Ad ware, Key Loggers to name but a few. They all aim to do the same thing, that is rob you of your personal data and generate revenue for there creators.

Key loggers for example, simply record every keystroke you make whilst online; broadcasting this data to someone else's PC somewhere out there in cyber space. Not a good thing when you are buying your latest 'widget' from 'widgets R us' and are typing in your credit card details, or when you are moving money around through online banking. Unfortunately however secure the website at 'widgets r us' is, the problem lies on the PC in front of you now. The key logging software is sat on your PC recording all the details you type in and sending this data to some remote computer. It could be too the far side of the world, or it could be to a PC next door, who knows where it ends up.

There is little 'widgets R us' can do as the next time you appear to visit their website they see the same details typed in, the same passwords and they greet you back again. The difference is of course it's not you this time, it's some cyber thief, buying your favourite widgets and you're the one paying for it.

The good news is it's not that complicated or expensive to protect yourself in the cyber world.

The first step to online security is to get a personal firewall. This monitors the data coming and going over your internet connection, acting as a shield alerting you to anything suspicious trying to broadcast from your PC.

The next essential thing on the list is a good spyware removal software; this will clean up your computer. The good news is there are a few freebies that work really well. You'll be amazed after running a clean up tool at just how much faster your PC will run. There are also a couple of software packages that act as a firewall specifically for spyware and ad ware, these will alert you should you be straying into an area on the internet known for spyware.

The final piece of your security armoury is a good anti virus software; this will protect you against viruses, worms Trojan horses and other viral software. That attempt to spread your data around the globe.

By investing in these three software defences you can feel confident in being able to cruise the internet super highway in safety.

Find out more about detecting spyware and PC security, download free spyware removal tools.

spyware-at.thecomputersite.org.uk

Spyware Removal Tool - Paid or Free?

Spyware and malware can shut down your computer life. It can destroy your desktop and cause you no end of stress and damage. The simpler forms of adware can irritate you at most, the simple forms of spyware can collect data about you, what sites you visit, what programs you use, etc. Malicious spyware can trace the keystrokes of your keyboard and steal information right off of your desktop. Spyware has been known to ruin businesses, facilitate identity theft and the ensuing theft of money in your online bank accounts, PayPal, etc. There is not much you can do when you have been the victim of cyber crime, but there is a lot you can do to make sure it does not happen again. Protect your computer and do not be the next victim of spyware, adware, and malicious software.

There are a variety of very strong spyware removal products that are commercially available to help you protect yourself from cyber crime. These days with wireless internet connections, your computer is probably on the internet from the time you turn it on to the time you shut it down at night. Anytime your computer is connected to the web, you could be at risk. Adware Spyware removal tools can help to clean your computer from unwanted risks, protect your computer from websites that automatically download data onto your computer, as well as real time cyber attacks.

There are many free anti spyware products on the internet that promise you protection from malicious software. Many of these programs hardly do a thing for your computer. To make sure you are really protected from the bad guys on the internet, you have to have bigger friends than free software geeks. Here are three reasons you should by the best spyware removal programs from the big boys.

Better funded research - For one, big boys like Norton have enormous budgets and large teams for research. Proper research can mean the difference between a security breach and tight PC internet safety. With new viruses being discovered almost every day, it takes a large team to be able to find ways of blocking them and keeping you and your information secure.

Cleaner, faster software - The software engineers from larger corporations that specialize in PC security are good at making sleep software that works well with various computers. Whether you use windows or have a Mac, there will be fixes that allow the program to work seamlessly on your computer. Too many small programs have a bulky interface that interrupts other program functions. With sleeker faster programming you can still achieve maximum computer speed.

Protects against real time threats - Many free protection companies do not protect against real time internet threats. Norton and other big malware protection programs help to stop websites that are deliberately hurting your computer or uploading malicious software to your computer. Stop internet criminals by determining that you are not going to be the victim of cyber crime.

Rich Vial is a webmaster for Spyware Removal & Adware Spyware Removal visit: urspywareremoval.com

Spyware, Viruses, and Other Online Threats - Is Your PC Properly Protected?

AOL and the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA) released their second annual Online Safety Study a few months back, and the results weren't pretty. While the latest survey did find that users were getting better at taking the steps necessary to keep their PCs properly secured, the findings show that there are still plenty of people who just don't understand online risks.

Some of the key facts uncovered by the Online Safety Study included:


81% of home PCs lack one of the three main sources of protection - a secure firewall, anti-virus software, and spyware protection.
56% of users had no anti-virus software installed, or had not updated their virus definition files in the last week.
44% of users did not have a properly-configured firewall in place.
38% of users lacked spyware protection.
Most telling, perhaps, is the fact that even in light of these findings, 83% of users surveyed still believed that their PCs were safe and properly secured.

The online security threat landscape has certainly changed from the days when viruses were home users' biggest worry, but the survey shows that users are largely not keeping up with the times. Every PC connected to the Internet today should be configured with the following (at an absolute minimum):


A personal firewall capable of filtering both inbound and outbound traffic.
Updated anti-virus software that offers real-time protection, the ability to scan on-demand, and email message scanning features.
Updated anti-spyware software that not only scans for and removes spyware on demand, but also proactively protects against threats in real-time.
Windows Automatic Updates turned on (to download and install critical security patches, service packs, and updates automatically), or weekly visits to the Windows Update web site to obtain the latest critical updates.

Thankfully, keeping your PC updated and properly protected against online threats needn't cost you a penny. There are a number of anti-virus, anti-spyware, and personal firewall programs available free for personal use. A simple web search will turn up direct links to some of the more popular options, which I will be discussing in more detail in future articles.

For the time being, however, considering beginning your PC lockdown process by taking a look at my beginner's guide to eradicating spyware, The Best Free Anti-Spyware Programs. A secure PC is a fast PC, so take the time to start locking down your home computer today. Your system will thank you!

Dan DiNicolo is the author of the book PC Magazine Windows XP Security Solutions, and the managing editor of the online learning web site 2000Trainers.com

12 Rules Of Spyware Safety

Unprotected computer or computer without any security tool is always vulnerable to cyber criminals, hackers, spammers and identity thieves. So, to avoid such security problems and identity theft, you should always have security software with some essential features such as firewall, antivirus etc.

If knowledge is power, then after you have finished this article, you will be feel like Mighty Man when this subject is brought up in casual conversation.

The next 12 essential security tools can help you to safeguard your identity, special information and figures on your computer, so that you can breakers the internet without any terror of identity theft, hacking, viruses, spywares etc.

Firewall is essential to hinder the unauthorized access to your computer figures. It monitors the inbound and outbound transfer from your computer to the internet and hinders any suspicious transfer. complex and code firewall is mandatory to hinder the uncertain transfer and working method firewall is crucial to safeguard your working method and your figures.

1. complex and code firewall:

Do you feel as though you have a firm grasp of the basics of this subject? If so, then you are ready to read the next part.

Complex and code firewall safeguards your system and computer from suspicious transfer and safeguard your codes from malware. For high turn of security, it should be a multi-layer firewall or with several layers of security.

2. working method firewall:

Some internet security software also affords working method firewall to safeguard your working method. This security tool hinders any malicious software from causing wound to archive in your sample windows working method. It also hinders account of hard to detach spyware with kernel-turn threats to computer to safeguard your working method from any wound.

3. broad secrecy method:

broad secrecy method is mandatory to make you unnoticed to hackers, even when you are united to net, so that you can access the internet without any terror of receiving hacked.

4. defiant virus:

defiant virus is crucial to safeguard your computer from wounds by viruses, worms and trojans. Viruses and worms reach from one computer to another both through e-packages or from archive downloaded from internet. Viruses and worms can wreck your archive and erase figures on your computer. So, to safeguard your figures and your hard diskette, you should always have efficient opposing virus code with the hottest definition archive.

5. defiant spyware:

defiant spyware safeguards your computer from spywares and intruders to safeguard your special information. Spywares get installed on your computer without your consent or erudition and take monitor of your computer, collect your special figures, information, web activities and web locates you stay and transmit that figures to others.

6. entire Spy position Blocking:

Spyware distribution web locates are the chief supply for spywares. sanctuary software with broad spy locate hindering include can hinder these weblocates and also hinders you from staying these locates by accident.

7. character theft safe guardion:

today, identity theft is a chief challenge on internet. With redouble in e-export, online exchange and praise license running on internet, safeguardion against identity theft is crucial to safeguard your identity and special information on your computer. So, identity theft safe guardion is a must security tool while accessing the internet.

8. honestly time updates:

Your computer should have hottest updates or unfeigned time updates against viruses, spywares and any new probable strikes.

9. defiant Spam, defiant Phishing, forward safe guardion:

Phishing packages is a sting, which looks like a correspondence from a lean or institution to collect your special information or lean facts. defiant spam, opposing phishing and epackages safe guardion is crucial to safeguard you from phishing e-packagess and e-packages fraud.

10. time messaging safe guardion:

Hackers, spammers, spywares and viruses can strike your minute messaging sitting. IM messaging safe guardion safeguards your minute messaging sitting from these strikes. You can also use this tool to curb your kid to use minute messengers only with trusted people.

11. Parental monitor:

This include is crucial to check your kids from accessing inappropriate web locates and objectionable content on web locates.

12. esteem license Monitoring alerts:

Some internet security software also afford praise license monitoring alerts which alert you if your praise license number appears online. This tool is very helpful if you use your praise license on internet for transactions.

The next time you have questions regarding this subject, you can refer back to this article as a handy guide.

There are hundreds of Adware deletion programs on the push. Your best bet is to go to a place like Spybot Download It lists the best Adware Removers presently on the push. Or just google the speak "adware remover". Like I said, you'll find hundreds. Some are good, some aren't. Free Spybot is a great situate for you to see which ones work, but I know some of you just like to google, and that's approval too ;). Just get one, I feel bad having to current so wholly for something so nominal.

Get Your Independent Guide to Spybot Downloads

Spyware Removal Tool - Paid or Free?

Spyware and malware can shut down your computer life. It can destroy your desktop and cause you no end of stress and damage. The simpler forms of adware can irritate you at most, the simple forms of spyware can collect data about you, what sites you visit, what programs you use, etc. Malicious spyware can trace the keystrokes of your keyboard and steal information right off of your desktop. Spyware has been known to ruin businesses, facilitate identity theft and the ensuing theft of money in your online bank accounts, PayPal, etc. There is not much you can do when you have been the victim of cyber crime, but there is a lot you can do to make sure it does not happen again. Protect your computer and do not be the next victim of spyware, adware, and malicious software.

There are a variety of very strong spyware removal products that are commercially available to help you protect yourself from cyber crime. These days with wireless internet connections, your computer is probably on the internet from the time you turn it on to the time you shut it down at night. Anytime your computer is connected to the web, you could be at risk. Adware Spyware removal tools can help to clean your computer from unwanted risks, protect your computer from websites that automatically download data onto your computer, as well as real time cyber attacks.

There are many free anti spyware products on the internet that promise you protection from malicious software. Many of these programs hardly do a thing for your computer. To make sure you are really protected from the bad guys on the internet, you have to have bigger friends than free software geeks. Here are three reasons you should by the best spyware removal programs from the big boys.

Better funded research - For one, big boys like Norton have enormous budgets and large teams for research. Proper research can mean the difference between a security breach and tight PC internet safety. With new viruses being discovered almost every day, it takes a large team to be able to find ways of blocking them and keeping you and your information secure.

Cleaner, faster software - The software engineers from larger corporations that specialize in PC security are good at making sleep software that works well with various computers. Whether you use windows or have a Mac, there will be fixes that allow the program to work seamlessly on your computer. Too many small programs have a bulky interface that interrupts other program functions. With sleeker faster programming you can still achieve maximum computer speed.

Protects against real time threats - Many free protection companies do not protect against real time internet threats. Norton and other big malware protection programs help to stop websites that are deliberately hurting your computer or uploading malicious software to your computer. Stop internet criminals by determining that you are not going to be the victim of cyber crime.

Rich Vial is a webmaster for Spyware Removal & Adware Spyware Removal visit: urspywareremoval.com

5 Steps To Block Spyware

If its not one thing, its another. That is one of those ridiculous phrases that pretty much goes without saying. Like "wherever you go, there you are." But, in this case it seems appropriate.

Allow me to elaborate. Computers on the Internet are almost constantly bombarded with viruses and other malware- so users employ antivirus software to protect themselves. Email inboxes are constantly flooded with pathetically useless spam- so users employ anti-spam programs and techniques to protect themselves. As soon as you think you have things under control you find out your system has a myriad of spyware and adware programs silently running in the background monitoring and reporting on your computer activity. Hence, "if its not one thing, its another."

The more benign spyware and adware simply monitors and tracks your the sites you visit on the web so that companies can determine the web-surfing habits of their users and try to pinpoint their marketing efforts. However, many forms of spyware go beyond simple tracking and actually monitor keystrokes and capture passwords and other functions which cross the line and pose a definite security risk.

How can you protect yourself from these insidious little programs? Ironically, many users unwittingly agree to install these programs. In fact, removing some spyware and adware might render some freeware or shareware programs useless. Below are 5 easy steps you can follow to try to avoid and, if not avoid, at least detect and remove these programs from your computer system: Be Careful Where You Download: Unscrupulous programs often come from unscrupulous sites. If you are looking for a freeware or shareware program for a specific purpose try searching reputable sites like tucows.com or download.com. Read the EULA: What is an EULA you ask? End User License Agreement. It's all of the technical and legal gibberish in that box above the radio buttons that say "No, I do not accept" or "Yes, I have read and accept these terms". Most people consider this a nuisance and click on "yes" without having read a word. The EULA is a legal agreement you are making with the software vendor. Without reading it you may be unwittingly agreeing to install spyware or a variety of other questionable actions that may not be worth it to you. Sometimes the better answer is "No, I do not accept." Read Before You Click: Sometimes when you visit a web site a text box might pop up. Like the EULA, many users simply consider these a nuisance and will just click away to make the box disappear. Users will click "yes" or "ok" without stopping to see that the box said "would you like to install our spyware program?" Ok, admittedly they don't generally come out and say it that directly, but that is all the more reason you should stop to read those messages before you click "ok". Protect Your System: Antivirus software is somewhat misnamed these days. Viruses are but a small part of the malicious code these programs protect you from. Antivirus has expanded to include worms, trojans, vulnerability exploits, jokes and hoaxes and even spyware and adware. If your antivirus product doesn't detect and block spyware you can try a product like AdAware Pro which will protect your system from spyware or adware in real time. Scan Your System: Even with antivirus software, firewalls and other protective measures some spyware or adware may eventually make it through to your system. While a product like AdAware Pro mentioned in step #4 will monitor your system in real time to protect it, AdAware Pro costs money. The makers of AdAware Pro, Lavasoft, also have a version available for free for personal use. AdAware will not monitor in real time, but you can manually scan your system periodically to detect and remove any spyware. Another excellent choice is Spybot Search & Destroy which is also available for free.

If you follow these five steps you can keep your system protected from spyware proactively and detect and remove any that does manage to get into your system. Good luck!

View the original article here

5 Steps To Block Spyware

If its not one thing, its another. That is one of those ridiculous phrases that pretty much goes without saying. Like "wherever you go, there you are." But, in this case it seems appropriate.

Allow me to elaborate. Computers on the Internet are almost constantly bombarded with viruses and other malware- so users employ antivirus software to protect themselves. Email inboxes are constantly flooded with pathetically useless spam- so users employ anti-spam programs and techniques to protect themselves. As soon as you think you have things under control you find out your system has a myriad of spyware and adware programs silently running in the background monitoring and reporting on your computer activity. Hence, "if its not one thing, its another."

The more benign spyware and adware simply monitors and tracks your the sites you visit on the web so that companies can determine the web-surfing habits of their users and try to pinpoint their marketing efforts. However, many forms of spyware go beyond simple tracking and actually monitor keystrokes and capture passwords and other functions which cross the line and pose a definite security risk.

How can you protect yourself from these insidious little programs? Ironically, many users unwittingly agree to install these programs. In fact, removing some spyware and adware might render some freeware or shareware programs useless. Below are 5 easy steps you can follow to try to avoid and, if not avoid, at least detect and remove these programs from your computer system: Be Careful Where You Download: Unscrupulous programs often come from unscrupulous sites. If you are looking for a freeware or shareware program for a specific purpose try searching reputable sites like tucows.com or download.com. Read the EULA: What is an EULA you ask? End User License Agreement. It's all of the technical and legal gibberish in that box above the radio buttons that say "No, I do not accept" or "Yes, I have read and accept these terms". Most people consider this a nuisance and click on "yes" without having read a word. The EULA is a legal agreement you are making with the software vendor. Without reading it you may be unwittingly agreeing to install spyware or a variety of other questionable actions that may not be worth it to you. Sometimes the better answer is "No, I do not accept." Read Before You Click: Sometimes when you visit a web site a text box might pop up. Like the EULA, many users simply consider these a nuisance and will just click away to make the box disappear. Users will click "yes" or "ok" without stopping to see that the box said "would you like to install our spyware program?" Ok, admittedly they don't generally come out and say it that directly, but that is all the more reason you should stop to read those messages before you click "ok". Protect Your System: Antivirus software is somewhat misnamed these days. Viruses are but a small part of the malicious code these programs protect you from. Antivirus has expanded to include worms, trojans, vulnerability exploits, jokes and hoaxes and even spyware and adware. If your antivirus product doesn't detect and block spyware you can try a product like AdAware Pro which will protect your system from spyware or adware in real time. Scan Your System: Even with antivirus software, firewalls and other protective measures some spyware or adware may eventually make it through to your system. While a product like AdAware Pro mentioned in step #4 will monitor your system in real time to protect it, AdAware Pro costs money. The makers of AdAware Pro, Lavasoft, also have a version available for free for personal use. AdAware will not monitor in real time, but you can manually scan your system periodically to detect and remove any spyware. Another excellent choice is Spybot Search & Destroy which is also available for free.

If you follow these five steps you can keep your system protected from spyware proactively and detect and remove any that does manage to get into your system. Good luck!

View the original article here

Spyware - Are You Safe Online?

Arguably one of the greatest inventions the world has ever known. The internet has opened up the business world; it allows people to communicate across vast distances, cheaper and easier than ever before. There is a world of information at your finger tips. More and more people are getting connected and taking advantage of the great wealth afforded by the net. There are however some fairly serious down sides, identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes. By taking advantage of unprotected surfers, stealing their personal details, hackers can run up huge bills in someone else's name and walk away undetected.

They say 90% of all PCs are infected with some form of spyware. Spyware is simply a little piece of software that installs itself onto your PC and literally spies on anything you do online. One way, the creators of such software nasties, are using to deliver their cargo is exploiting the popularity of Internet video clips, piggy backing on the latest funny videos. Spyware comes in many guises, Mal-ware, Ad ware, Key Loggers to name but a few. They all aim to do the same thing, that is rob you of your personal data and generate revenue for there creators.

Key loggers for example, simply record every keystroke you make whilst online; broadcasting this data to someone else's PC somewhere out there in cyber space. Not a good thing when you are buying your latest 'widget' from 'widgets R us' and are typing in your credit card details, or when you are moving money around through online banking. Unfortunately however secure the website at 'widgets r us' is, the problem lies on the PC in front of you now. The key logging software is sat on your PC recording all the details you type in and sending this data to some remote computer. It could be too the far side of the world, or it could be to a PC next door, who knows where it ends up.

There is little 'widgets R us' can do as the next time you appear to visit their website they see the same details typed in, the same passwords and they greet you back again. The difference is of course it's not you this time, it's some cyber thief, buying your favourite widgets and you're the one paying for it.

The good news is it's not that complicated or expensive to protect yourself in the cyber world.

The first step to online security is to get a personal firewall. This monitors the data coming and going over your internet connection, acting as a shield alerting you to anything suspicious trying to broadcast from your PC.

The next essential thing on the list is a good spyware removal software; this will clean up your computer. The good news is there are a few freebies that work really well. You'll be amazed after running a clean up tool at just how much faster your PC will run. There are also a couple of software packages that act as a firewall specifically for spyware and ad ware, these will alert you should you be straying into an area on the internet known for spyware.

The final piece of your security armoury is a good anti virus software; this will protect you against viruses, worms Trojan horses and other viral software. That attempt to spread your data around the globe.

By investing in these three software defences you can feel confident in being able to cruise the internet super highway in safety.

Find out more about detecting spyware and PC security, download free spyware removal tools.

spyware-at.thecomputersite.org.uk

Spyware and Adware is Wrecking Havoc on Your Computer

Overview As technology in the software field advances so does the maliciousness of unscrupulous individuals in the world. When things become easier with new developments there are also its unwanted disadvantages and this is nowhere but true in today's most talked about industry of software.

The world of internet is spreading at an unprecedented pace and thousands and millions of individuals are being connected together and so are their computers. If the internet has made things easier, it has also become an easy way for malicious people to spread their harmful development in software in the form of Adware and Spyware. For many the problem of Adware and Spyware might be a regular one but for those unsuspecting individuals who are not aware of such harmful things there is nothing but havoc on their computers. The more improvements in technology the more challenges one has to face. Most of the information exchange in the world today takes place through internet and it is very urgent to protect the system from viruses, hackers, Spyware, and other such cyber threats.

The internet is the best means for spreading the programmes of Spyware and Adware because through the internet these harmful software programmes can reach to millions of computers, hijack the useful and sensitive information about the users and use it for personal gains of the programme creator. A computer affected by Spyware and Adware is the most vulnerable and robs the user of personal information that is entered on the computer or any other internet activities like entering the credit card number, password and other such sensitive information. It thus always becomes important for the users to be as careful as possible before using the internet and take prevention with the different means of tackling the malice of Adware/Spyware.

What is Spyware?

In order to tackle the menace of Spyware one has to get familiar with the idea of what Spyware is. Spyware is nothing but a computer programme that sits on the user's computer without their knowledge. The name itself indicates the working of Spyware. Spyware is automatically installed on the user's computer and spies on the information the user types on their machines. These Spyware are programmed in such a way that once they detect the sensitive information they can send the sensitive and personal information of the user to its creator. In one way, Spyware can be very useful because it lets the user and software professionals know the flaws in the system and make improvements accordingly so that the flaws can be removed.

A study undertaken by the National Cyber-Security Alliance and AOL showed that as much as sixty-one percent systems are infected by the Spyware and ninety two percent of users were not even aware that their system was taken over by the Spyware. This statistics is the indication of the surreptious nature of Spyware. Although partial control of the system is generally found with, Spyware but its effects can be far more dangerous for the users. Passwords for the bank account of the users have been spied and used by others with the use of Spyware and have cost them losses ranging in thousands of dollars. Protection from Spyware The systems running on the Windows OS are particularly vulnerable to the attacks of Spyware because the Internet Explorer of Windows is closely integrated with the OS and the OS is the widely used platform for most of the computers in the world. Internet is the main place to infect systems with Spyware and hence one must use all the precautions ranging from firewall activation to anti-Spyware programmes so that the Spyware can be prevented from infecting the system.

When the user is surfing on the internet, they must take all the care before entering their sensitive information. One should never download freeware or shareware that is offered by many sites because it might contain a Spyware programme. One should always clean cookies and the history items from the system because the Spyware can intrude in the system through these means. Adware Adware like Spyware is the same kind of software that is installed on the user 's computer without their knowledge. Adware is also known as advertising supported software and its working is somewhat different from the Spyware. The Adware programme runs all on its own when the user uses their system, it can run, show and it even downloads advertising items without the users wanting it.

At times, an Adware can as well have a Spyware in it thus making the system of the user more vulnerable for data theft. Unscrupulous programmers integrate Adware in their software packages and keep on updating it, Adware is generally found in shareware. Adware mainly supports advertising needs and some of the notorious Adware programmes include, cursor mania, Top Moxie, clip genie, gator, crazy girls, Spyware doctor, hotbar, comet cursor, errorsafe, ICQ and many more. Though Adware combined with Spyware can be very ruinous Adware alone is not as harmful as Spyware and one can get enough protection from it. Adware Safety Tips Detecting Adware and Spyware manually is a great time consuming process but one can run the anti-Spyware and Adware programmes on their systems and get rid of the nuisance.

The first thing one can do to avoid these malicious programmes is to surf the internet in a secured way with the enabled firewall. The anti-Adware programmes can detect, keep in isolation, and remove the harmful programmes. Since, the Windows OS is the widely used OS in the world it is the most vulnerable platform for Adware and Spyware. In order to prevent Adware infiltration into the system one can use robust OS like Linux and Mac OS X. One should not as well have many toolbars installed in the browser because it can not only slow down the browser but also invite Adware. Regular security and OS updates are always recommended in the prevention tips for Adware. One can as well use alternative secure browsers like Mozilla Firefox, Opera, or Safari so that the Adware do not intrude in the system.

Kim Adair is a Affiliate marketer, eBook Author, and FOREX trader who runs a blog to help anyone make money online! You can check it out over at http://www.affiliatecombat.com

Spyware Removal Tool - Paid or Free?

Spyware and malware can shut down your computer life. It can destroy your desktop and cause you no end of stress and damage. The simpler forms of adware can irritate you at most, the simple forms of spyware can collect data about you, what sites you visit, what programs you use, etc. Malicious spyware can trace the keystrokes of your keyboard and steal information right off of your desktop. Spyware has been known to ruin businesses, facilitate identity theft and the ensuing theft of money in your online bank accounts, PayPal, etc. There is not much you can do when you have been the victim of cyber crime, but there is a lot you can do to make sure it does not happen again. Protect your computer and do not be the next victim of spyware, adware, and malicious software.

There are a variety of very strong spyware removal products that are commercially available to help you protect yourself from cyber crime. These days with wireless internet connections, your computer is probably on the internet from the time you turn it on to the time you shut it down at night. Anytime your computer is connected to the web, you could be at risk. Adware Spyware removal tools can help to clean your computer from unwanted risks, protect your computer from websites that automatically download data onto your computer, as well as real time cyber attacks.

There are many free anti spyware products on the internet that promise you protection from malicious software. Many of these programs hardly do a thing for your computer. To make sure you are really protected from the bad guys on the internet, you have to have bigger friends than free software geeks. Here are three reasons you should by the best spyware removal programs from the big boys.

Better funded research - For one, big boys like Norton have enormous budgets and large teams for research. Proper research can mean the difference between a security breach and tight PC internet safety. With new viruses being discovered almost every day, it takes a large team to be able to find ways of blocking them and keeping you and your information secure.

Cleaner, faster software - The software engineers from larger corporations that specialize in PC security are good at making sleep software that works well with various computers. Whether you use windows or have a Mac, there will be fixes that allow the program to work seamlessly on your computer. Too many small programs have a bulky interface that interrupts other program functions. With sleeker faster programming you can still achieve maximum computer speed.

Protects against real time threats - Many free protection companies do not protect against real time internet threats. Norton and other big malware protection programs help to stop websites that are deliberately hurting your computer or uploading malicious software to your computer. Stop internet criminals by determining that you are not going to be the victim of cyber crime.

Rich Vial is a webmaster for Spyware Removal & Adware Spyware Removal visit: urspywareremoval.com

Top Spywares in 2010

Appin�s research lab in Asia and Europe does regular research on spyware and malware analysis/reverse engineering and evaluates which spywares have maximum spread. The summary of research on top spywares is underneath:

1. PurtyScan: is a pop-up advert. It attracts the user by giving propositions to find pornographic content/spyware on your computer and clean it. However once the user clicks it he/she will be taken to a website with much more spyware and adware waiting to infiltrate your computer.

2. Gator: Gator tracks your online browsing so that it can tailor itself to your likes. The computer user is flooded with banner ads attempting to catch your attention. This often ends up on computers through sharing files on Kazaa or other P2P programs or downloading freebies from random sites.

3. CoolWebSearch: This is a form of malware designed to hijack your Internet settings and then forward you to its own web page. However the webpage that it forwards you to is loaded with adware and spyware.

4. ISTbar/Aupdate: This acts as a toolbar. It continues to send a barrage of pop-up adverts displaying pornographic images to your computer.

5. Perfect KeyLogger: This is a very harmful form of coding. It records everything you type on your computer and can communicate your most personal information back to its creator.

6. Trojan-Downloader.Generic: This is a backdoor which allows the attacker to download any Trojan into the victim�s computer. This is actually a family of spywares popularly called as downloaders.

7. Trojan-Spy.Win32.Zbot.gen: This is spyware which reverse connects to a remote server and allows the attacker to gain remote access to your computer. This spyware is dangerous and can capture all sensitive data/passwords stored in your computer.

8. Explorer32.Hijacker: This spyware hijacks the explorer.exe of windows and gathers sensitive information from your computer.

Source of Information :  Hakin9 November 2010

The Spyware Trends

In one of the honeypots we had to collect spywares, the number of spywares collected hit a meter of 376 unique families and over 3000 samples in a single day which is quite high for a single honeypot. The spywares are rising in number and are spreading capability over different platforms like windows, Windows Mobile, Macintosh, Android, Symbian etc.

A new trend of spyware has come into picture called Spear Spyware. The spear spyware is one which is targeted to a particular organization or a set of individuals and hence has no signature, is based on target�s infrastructure. Such kind of spywares are very difficult to detect and are meant to capture specific information like files, username/passwords, banking information, keylogs, screenshots of the target computer.

Another trend obtained saw evolution of privilege escalation in spywares which gave them a greater capability to even spy on web and video cameras, audio along with normal functionality.

The spywares created are also meant to steal application data which is sensitive. An example observed in 2010 was Stuxnet which exploited vulnerability in Siemens software for SCADA to become one of the most widely spread spywares.

Considering the serious damage accomplished by spyware, the fact that studies by Forrester Research find that as many as 87% of PCs are infected with spyware is sobering. Even more sobering is the fact that infected computers has, on average, 28 different types of spyware installed at any given time, and 7% of infected computers are infected with spyware that records keystrokes such as passwords and credit card numbers.

Source of Information :  Hakin9 November 2010

Attack Methods used by spywares to spread

Appin has various honeypots which did studies over botnets, methods used to spread botnets which capture various attack, exploits which are used to spread spywares. Some of the examples are given below:

1. Email based attacks: Ever got an email prompting you to click a link or download a pdf. Beware this is one of the most common methods used to spread spywares and there have been countless such attacks spreading out of Chinese and Russian IP addresses.

2. Pornographic and free tools download websites: These websites are honeypots created to attract people and spread spywares through browser vulnerabilities being exploited.

3. Spyware removal tools which act as spyware: Spyware removal tools prompt a user to check their system for spywares but the police become a thief in no time. A lot of these tools remove other spywares but add a spyware to take control of your computer.

4. USB drives: USB drives act as a spreader of spywares in a network of computers. There are various such propagation modules which have worm behavior and act as a carrier of spywares.

5. Chat bots: How often do you get a link in your chat bot from girl with hot picture? This is again one of the methods to spread a spyware in a network of people related to each other where the software starts sending malicious links which download the spyware on your computer.

Source of Information :  Hakin9 November 2010