Have you ever experienced a slow Internet access, or even network disconnections? Have you ever been annoyed by the bombardment of pop-up advertisements? Since last September, our HelpDesk has received a number of reports about these problems when tapping on the network. After a detailed investigation, we found these computers were infected by not only virus but also SPYWARE.

According to a survey conducted by WatchGuard Technologies, spyware has been ranked as the biggest threat to network security in 2005. In the same survey, however, over 50% users do not know what it is.

What is Spyware?
Spyware is a software installed on your computer without your consent or knowledge. It gathers information from your computer and relays it to third party individuals or organizations. It can take various forms to infiltrate your computer, most likely as a virus or as a Trojan. Owing to its ability to steal confidential information, spyware represents a potentially devastating security threat for Internet users.

How did Spyware Go to My Computer?
Spyware can be downloaded onto you computer when you visit malicious websites, click on deceptive popups, download unknown files or read spam messages. It takes advantage of "active content" includes JavaScript, Java applets and ActiveX controls. You will not be informed about its installation. Spyware can hide in your computer and monitor your activities while you are online. To check whether your computer has been infected by a spyware, you need an anti-spyware software.

Anti-spyware Software
There are a number of anti-spyware you can use to detect and remove spyware. The most popular freeware are Lavasoft Ad-Adware and SaferNetworking Spybot Search & Destory . Besides, Microsoft has recently announced a beta version for MS Windows AntiSpyware. Please refer to the software websites for details.

How to Protect Computers from Spyware Attack?
There are some simple measures that you can take to protect your computer from possible spyware attacks or, at least, minimize the danger: The key is that your web browser must be secure and intact.

1. Check Microsoft's alert on "Increase Your Browsing and E-mail Safety" if you are a Windows User. Besides, Windows XP SP2 includes great improvements to Internet Explorer security by stopping web pages that contain "active content" from accessing your computer maliciously.
2. Download the latest security patches for your browser (like Firefox, Opera etc) as well as from Windows Update to make your system less vulnerable to spyware attacks.
3. Deploy Internet security technology such as firewalls to control unwanted exchange of information through the Internet.
4. Install an anti-virus software to guard your computer and stop malicious actions. If you have not installed one, please get a free download of PC-cillin Internet Security 2005
5. Be cautious when opening attachments and downloading software to prevent installing or executing potential spyware.
6. Make sure passwords are kept secret, so as to prevent unauthorized access to your desktop computers.

Reference:

• Malware (including spyware, spam and etc) Overview - Multimedia Presentation:
  http://www.trendmicro.com/en/offers/global/malware-demo.htm
• Anti-Spyware Guide:
  http://www.firewallguide.com/spyware.htm
• Review on Major Anti-spyware Software:
  http://spywarewarrior.com/asw-features.htm