Spyware Lurks: Be Aware Of Bonus Software

People buying packaged software should be aware, that may be getting more than they were hoping for, from the software being purchased. The added piece of bonus software bundled with their purchase may contain spyware. People get attracted by the bonus attached to software, which appears as getting more for the money, but in the case of a software purchase, does anyone want spyware, as a bonus? Of course, if people knew that the bonus included spyware, they would not want that bonus. However, it is almost impossible for a software buyer to know, if the bonus software contains spyware, which usually shows up only after it has been installed into a computer.

The installation of spyware into a computer may be part and parcel of the software received with the purchase. Spyware will monitor, all of the surfing activity, of the person using the computer, on which it has been installed. The monitored information is then transmitted via the internet, to the company that developed the software. The collected data is vital information, much needed and used by marketing companies or by marketing departments. Personal information is stored in databases and is often sold to third parties. The new software may infect the computer with dangerous spyware, which appeared as a useful bonus to the buyer. The bonus software packaged with the main program is known as software bundling.

Spyware makes use of a unique tracking number that is also unique to the particular computer and its user when installed. After installation of the software, it beings to transmit the users surfing activities. The information collected may include sites visited, product searches made or information sought by the user.

Spyware poses a great risk to computer users and can lead to identity theft, being bombarded by advertisements, a sluggish computer and even to financial losses, if personal information gets into the wrong hands.

Software buyers must read and understand all of the features of the software and pay particular attention to any free bonus software that may be packaged with the main software program being purchased. It is important to note that not all bonus software includes spyware.

It is recommended that a computer user have a program installed that can detect and remove spyware. A spyware scanner will show if any spyware exists in a computer and spyware if any, can then be removed. A free spyware scanner is available at http://www.DeleteSpyware.net

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About the Author

Julian Pereira enjoys the internet and has devoted his attention on computer privacy issues and spyware in particular. His website can be viewed at http://www.Deletespyware.net

Written by mellow on November 26th, 2006 with no comments.
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Internet Security – How Safe Is Our Worldwide Web?

Are you aware that behind the scenes a depraved snake is watching, slithering through Internet security loopholes, ready to strike at any moment? Despicable, swindling crooks prey on unsuspecting victims every second of the day via our wonderful Internet.

Ahh, the Internet! What would we do without it? Need a quick answer to a question or a solution to a problem? Look it up on the Internet. Have some shopping to do and don?t want to hassle the crowds or search from store to store? No problem. Order off the Internet. Need to relax and unwind? Browse the Internet. No doubt about it, the Internet has impacted the lives of almost everyone.

A Look Behind the Scenes

Did you know when you log into the Internet, a fraudster can gather enough personal data on you to conduct monetary transfers from your banking account in a matter of seconds? You don?t even need to be browsing.

The keylogger computer virus has become one of the most serious and dangerous attacks on the Internet. It silently sits in your computer illegally recording key strokes of user names and passwords. While bank and credit card information is transmitted to the hacker, you may not even be aware you have a virus.

Computer virus attacks are increasing in frequency and complexity. Everyone who uses a computer, whether at home or at work, is exposed to more security risks than you can imagine. According to an FBI report, 90% of companies have detected Internet security incidents in the last year. Online attacks have become so widespread that unless we know how to protect ourselves, we are most certainly vulnerable to some type of personal destruction.

How to Defend Yourself

If you seriously want to be in command of your security and privacy, you need to follow these steps:

1. Get rid of any malware (virus, Trojans, worms) that lives in your PC now.

2. Protect yourself against future attacks.

3. Be aware of the tricks these hackers, scammers and snoops play.

4. Keep your personal information away from prying eyes.

It is imperative that you take some time to educate yourself. Putting it off is putting yourself at a high risk. Take advantage of our almighty worldwide Internet. You will find tons of information about spyware protection and even free downloads to see if your computer is infected. What you learn could save you from upsetting losses.

Clean up and secure your computer now. Don?t become a victim!

About the Author:

Please visit http://www.travelwebbase.com/internet-security.html for additional information.

Written by mellow on November 26th, 2006 with no comments.
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