Spyware, Adware, and Viruses for Dummies.

[fussnfeathers]

I figured it'd be a good time to break these terms down to easy-to-understand definitions. Most of us geeks rattle off the way to fix the problems, but never really define what the problems are. I'm as guilty of it as anybody else.

If you're new to computers, just bought a new rig with broadband access, or just aren't aware of what's going on with your machine, here's what each of the terms mean.

Adware: Adware is basically non-destructive to your computer, and is not a "virus". This is a common misconception. What adware does is install a small program that runs in the background, out of sight. Once installed and running, it will do one of two things (and sometimes both): When you visit a site (like TweakNews) that has banner ads at the top of the page, the adware program will "overwrite" those legitimate ads with banners the adware program wants you to see. For example, every ad on TweakNews is computer related, so if you see a banner ad for "Natural Male Enhancement", it's a pretty good bet you've got adware. The second thing it will do is generate "pop-up" ads, those annoying little boxes that interrupt your browsing. Typically those ads are not sponsored by the site, and the owner doesn't know about them.

Adware is not dangerous, per se, but it will slow your computer down, and if you have enough of those programs installed, can cause a lockup or crash. Getting these programs is painfully easy: Most "free downloads" will include adware of one form or another. Some will tell you it's there, others won't. Some (like file-sharing programs) will install a program, and tie it to the program you actually wanted, so if you uninstall the adware, your free program won't work anymore. Just be very wary of "free software", unless you know the source well. I only recommend downloading trial versions and freeware from reputable sites, such as Downloads.com, CNet.com, or Tucows.com.

The best program for removing adware is AdAware SE, from Lavasoft. It's a free program for personal use, and will help you safely remove any adware on your system. Go to www.lavasoft.de to get the program, and follow the simple instructions. Be sure to update the program regularly, so it will catch any new programs that become available.



Spyware: More dangerous than Adware, Spyware is classified as any program that monitors your computer usage, with varying degrees of danger. Some will only monitor websites you go to (GAIM/Gator is one of the more "popular", and attempt to send you ads based on your browsing. These programs typically "phone home" to a central server, storing your information for later use. The operators of these sites and programs tell you that they don't store "personal information", and in fact only store your browser history. While this might be true, it's still an untrustworthy way to do business.

The more dangerous spyware programs can include a "keylogger", that records every keystroke you type. These malicious programs then "phone home" the information to a server, where the operators can find important information, such as passwords, bank account info, email addresses, and so on.

Spyware by itself is not damaging to your system, and is not a virus. It IS damaging to your personal security, though, so it's important to remove it quickly. Point your favorite web browser to http://www.spybot.info/en/index.html to get SpyBot Search and Destroy. It also is a free program for personal use, and safely finds and removes any spyware on your system. Be sure to update regularly, so it can catch any new programs that become available.



Viruses: Here's the grandaddy of them all, and probably the most mis-used term of them all. A virus is a small, easily hidden program that can do any number of things, from simply acting as a keylogger (see Spyware above as well), to actually causing damage to your operating system (WindowsXP/ME/2000/98, etc). Viruses can be very difficult to remove, and it may even be months before you realize you have one. Many are "set" to go off at certain times and dates, in order to cause a massive problem, particularly for businesses, by wiping out whole banks of computers at the same time.

Viruses, in general, cannot be installed without your permission. The most typical ways to get a virus is either through your e-mail, or through a file-sharing program, like Grokster, Napster, or Bittorrent. Once installed, however, your computer will start doing things "behind your back", such as sending out spam emails to everyone in your e-mail address book with the virus itself attached. Your best protection for this is to not open any e-mails from addresses that you do not know, or open any attachment that you did not ask for. If you get an e-mail from a friend with a file attached, e-mail or call that friend to find out if he/she actually did send you that file, and what it is.

File Sharing programs are another popular way to spread viruses. You may think you're downloading the latest Green Day song, when in fact, you're downloading a virus that will cause you no end of trouble. DO NOT USE THEM, for your own safety and security. There are legitimate download sites that will charge you per song, but you're assured that you're actually getting what you want. The same goes with software. DO NOT USE FILE SHARING. Aside from the fact it's technically illegal, it's just not safe.

Anti-virus programs come in various forms, from simple stand-alone scanners to full-blown suites of software. Which one you use is up to you, but I don't suggest full suites like Norton System Works or Internet Security. These bundles typically install a bunch of software you don't need, and will never use. I suggest AVG Antivirus from www.grisoft.com . It's free for personal use, or you can pay a small fee for the professional version. I find that the free version is more than adequate. Another option is Norton Antivirus, but just that program alone. Head to http://www.symantec.com/nav/nav_9xnt/ to find out about this scanner. It's expensive, at $50 USD, but some folks find it easier to use than AVG Antivirus, as it tends to "hold your hand" through the scanning setup.

Whichever you choose, be sure to leave the auto-updates ON. These programs will automatically download the newest protection files (known as Definitions), so you can be assured that you're protected from the newest virus to hit the internet. Both also offer real-time protection, which I also suggest. These will keep you safe while you're browsing.



Some final notes: Just to reiterate, Adware and Spyware are NOT viruses, so your virus scanner will not catch them. You must use the proper tools to detect and clean them out. I suggest a virus scan weekly, and scans for Adware and Spyware every couple of days. I personally have mine set to run every night, at 4am, while I'm asleep.

Keeping your computer free of these problems will not only help your machine run smoother and faster, but also protects your personal information and security.
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