Most people have no idea where these adware programs come from or how
they get onto your computer. There are many tricks spyware authors use,
here are a few of the major ways:
Some freeware programs are bundled with adware, which is installed at
the same time. The P2P file sharing programs are notorious for this,
many come with countless unwanted add-ons. If you are careful to read
the small print when you install the software it should warn you about
this, and it is sometimes possible to opt out. This is unfortunately not
always the case, shady dealers will always remain in the shade.
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Many unscrupulous home page hijackers and dialers, get in there by
exploiting security holes in Internet Explorer. They use ways of getting
code to run that are not supposed to be possible, but can run due to
mistakes in the browser code. You can do your best to guard against this
by ensuring you have the latest updates and patches from Microsoft. This
will not give you a 100% shield because there are always new holes to
fix, but it will keep you stronger.
Many adware programs load using Internet Explorer’s ActiveX
installation. When a webpage includes a link to an ActiveX program, a
window will appear asking the user if he wishes to execute it. If ‘Yes’
is clicked, the software is allowed to run and can do anything it likes
on our computer, including installing spyware programs. So, you should
never click Yes on a download and install prompt unless you are 100%
sure you trust the publisher of the software.
As a side note to this, sometimes sites and pop-up ads try to trick you
into clicking Yes by stating that the adware software is necessary to
view the site, or opening endless error windows if you click No, or
claiming that the digital certificate on the code means it is safe. It
means no such thing. Microsoft Authenticode, signed by companies like
Verisign, means only that the company that wrote the software is the
same as the company whose name appears on the download prompt. It does
not mean it is safe or free of spyware.
These tips will help you avoid adware and spyware all together. But what
should you do if you detect one of these programs on your computer?
Either use a free adware remover or buy PC protection or spyware
detecting software to keep your computer clear for good.
