Spyware by EBS - leader in Network Support and IT Services Houston

EBS IT Solutions | Back to Knowledge Base | Home

Spyware

What is Spyware? As defined by Microsoft, "Spyware is a general term used for software that performs certain behaviors such as advertising, collecting personal information, or changing the configuration of your computer, generally without appropriately obtaining your consent."

How did Spyware get on my computer? The download process is unannounced so that you will be unaware that your computer has accepted spyware. Ways that Spyware is downloaded include:
  •   Clicking on deceptive pop-ups
•    Opening spam email
  •   Downloading free utilities, games, toolbars, media players, etc.
  •   File sharing programs
  •   Visiting corrupt websites

How do I know I "have it" ? Some spyware is unobtrusive and innocent enough, but it accumulates and causes problems and it varies widely in its effects and persistence. Symptoms of spyware include:

• You see pop-up advertisements even when you're not on the Web
• The page your Web browser first opens to (your home page) or your browser search settings have changed without your knowledge
• You notice a new toolbar in your browser that you didn't want, and find it difficult to get rid of
• Your computer takes longer than usual to complete certain tasks
• You experience a sudden rise in computer crashes

How can I get rid of Spyware? We recommend that you use Counter-Spy, from Sunbelt Software. The software is about $20 per machine. it should be used on your home machines as well.
[This recommendation is based on some work with Counter-Spy and an article in PC World (03/05,) which reported on a test and rating of 9 Anti-Spyware products. The article rated Sunbelt Software the highest. The testing setup 81 common infections and Counter-Spy had the highest detection rate. It protects against host file changes, prevents changes to registry run keys, etc. It beat Computer Associates E trust Pest Patrol, McAfee's AntiSpyware, Spy Subtract, and others. Aluria Spyware Eliminator has also ranked well in comparisons. The soon to be released Microsoft Anti Spyware product also looks to be very strong.]

HELP: For help with anti-spyware and other malware and security concerns, give us a call or email EBS and we will be glad to be of assistance: 713.522.3480

Sources: Microsoft on spyware -
http://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/spyware/spywarewhat.mspx

INTERESTING BITS

Templates: did you know you can download Office templates - for Word, Excel, PowerPoint - free from Microsoft. From a business planning checklist, to a form for evaluating job candidates there are lots of templates to choose from. Just visit: http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/templates/default.aspx to find what you need!

Plasma versus LCD TV*: LCD TVs lamps will last a bit longer than plasmas. Typical plasma TVs have a life span of 30,000 to 40,000 hours, which equates to at least three years, three months of 24/7 usage before the TV fades to half the original brightness.

LCD TVs also have replaceable backlights, but the expense of replacing one when the time comes may be greater then simply replacing the entire TV. LCD TVs lamps will last a bit longer than plasmas, but both are likely to meet general consumer expectations.
*http://www.flattvpeople.com/tutorials/lcd-vs-plasma.asp