The Dangers of Spyware


by Barbara J. Feldman on December 9, 2009

Spyware has become one of the biggest Internet problems in the twenty first century and will continue to be a dangerous threat to Internet safety and security until we figure out a sure fire way to completely rid our computer systems of it. Until then however we have been fortunate enough that companies have come out with excellent anti-spyware software and information on the dangers of spyware. This article will give you a better idea of what spyware is, what it does and why it’s so dangerous, and how to prevent it from getting on your computer.

What is spyware and why is it so dangerous?

Most of the spyware used today is fairly innocent as it is most commonly used to monitor Internet habits in order to send out target advertisements. Spyware is also commonly found in conjunction with adware and can be harmless. However, there are some types of spyware that can be used to monitor much more than just your online surfing habits. Spyware is capable of monitoring information about other things like, email addresses, passwords, web pages you visited, hard drive information, and credit card information.

The most dangerous part about spyware is that your information can be monitored and sent to third parties without your knowledge. Which means that any information that spyware can get to, can be sent anywhere else. Can you see the dangers in personal and private information getting into the wrong hands? It’s for this reason alone that if spyware is found on your computer you should immediately remove it; you have no idea where or who it can go to.

How do I block spyware from getting on my computer?

Prevention is definitely the best option when it comes to computers and spyware. It’s going to be much easier if you keep spyware off your computer rather than find it and have to remove it. Here are some things you can do to help block spyware from getting on your computer.

  • Be aware of what you’re installing on your computer. It sounds silly because everyone should know what they’re installing right? Well, sometimes when you go to download a program onto your computer, especially if its freeware, you need to make sure you really know the source of your program. Some less than reputable software sources will include spyware as part of their program and you will only find it in small print.
  • Install a firewall. A firewall program can filter data coming in and going out to of your computer when you’re connected to the internet. It will warn you every time something tries to install itself without your permission. That way you are aware of what programs are trying to get onto your computer.
  • Install some type of spyware blocker program. Another way to help ensure that your computer remains protected from spyware is to install anti-spyware software on your computer. There are basically two different options when it comes to software; free and paid. You can download free anti-spyware software from the internet and it will usually take care of simple spyware programs. However if you’re having serious spyware problems you will probably want to buy the real versions of ones you have tried out as they are better at keeping the spyware off of your computer and from coming back.

Knowing and understanding the dangers of spyware can help keep your computer protected. If you can prevent spyware from getting onto your computer you will be much better off and so will your computer.

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