In addition to virus attacks, malicious code and phishing attempts, adware and spyware are becoming more of a threat.
Aside from the amount of resources needed to process and transmit data, Lutz Blaeser, MD of Intact Software Distribution, describes spyware as software, surreptitiously downloaded to a “victim’s” machine, that gathers personal information and relays it back to another computer, more than likely for advertising purposes.
“However, these programs can also alter your PC’s configuration, force open ads or redirect the browser to another Web page. Adware may also leave security holes that make your machine vulnerable to exploitation by cyber criminals,” he explains. “More often than not, when users download free software or shareware, they unwittingly trigger adware and spyware, the details of which are hidden in the end user licence agreements.”
He says there are several telltale signs that a machine has been infected with spyware. “Firstly, seemingly endless pop-up windows, where before there were none. Also the home page changing without any intervention, as well as unfamiliar toolbars being added to the browser or unusual icons in the taskbar.”
There are several tips to remain free of this scourge, says Blaeser. “Be suspicious of free downloads, and carefully scrutinise any licence agreements before initialling anything new. In addition, do not click on any pop-up windows, and set your browser preferences to limit these and cookies.”
“These are all common sense measures, but it also helps to have an anti-adware tool installed,” he says. “To this end, Bitdefender, an innovative global security software solutions provider, has unveiled a free Adware Removal Tool for PC to its product line.”
According to Blaeser, the tool removes irritating apps, adware, toolbars and other browser add-ons. “It also offers complete protection against malicious programs that can hijack computers, but does not replace a traditional anti-malware solution.”
He said a recent study by the software giant revealed that one in three ad networks could be serving up malware in supposedly legitimate adverts. “It also showed that nearly 7% of advertising landing pages were misleading, infecting users with malware or deceiving them with fraud, spam and phishing.”
This is why Bitdefender decided to create an adware removal tool, and to offer full-range protection against the whole series of adware-related threats. “The free tool helps PC users keep control of their computers, while enjoying the apps and software they choose, and knowing they are secure and adware free.”
He says the tool works by scanning the machine, then marking a list of dangerous and annoying apps such as Adware.SwiftBrowse, Adware.Plush and Adware.BrowseFox. “User’s permission is required to delete the programs. The tool also combats Bundler and Keylogger software, which invade users’ privacy and may cause financial damage. Finally the tool supports any PC with Windows (XP or later Windows release).”