Internet-Monitoring Software - Has your Computer been Compromised?
Published on 04 March 13
Aaron0
There are many types of internet-monitoring software out there hackers can use against you. If you are not careful, you could have this software installed on your PC without you knowing it.
What’s Internet-Monitoring Software?
Internet-monitoring software is what the bad guys put on your computer to steal from you. The purpose of this software is generally to monitor your web browsing activity anonymously and silently. Internet monitoring software can keylog your username/password, track all of your internet surfing, redirect your browser, and so on. While the hackers are monitoring your activity, they’re getting access to your private info and your computer is no longer secure.
Keylogging
One aspect of the software is that it can record every keystroke on your keyboard. This information then can be sent back to the hacker. The hacker could theoretically have access to all of your bank account information if he is able to get your password. Obviously, this can cause you a huge number of security problems.
Unauthorized Remote Access
Other types of monitoring software can allow the hacker to get remote access to your computer. Your computer can be used to send out literally thousands of spam emails - all from your email account without you even knowing it. This type of software also can replace the homepage in your browser and bombard you with advertisements. Any sort of internet company can be hit with internet monitoring software, even professionals at an SEO company.
Adware
Another type of related software is used by hackers is called adware. This software will track which websites you visit. All of this internet browsing data is sent back to the developer. Your PC then is targeted with specific sorts of pop up advertisements. Ads can come to your PC even when you are offline.
Malware
Some internet monitoring software will act like it is real anti-spyware software. It will have pop-ups showing up on your PC that tell you about threats on your computer. However, if you do download the software, you will just get even more pop-ups. When you download some of these programs, they will also monitor your internet activity closely and will cause your PC to get even more infections. Sometimes, wiping your hard drive is the only way to cure this problem.
By Consent
Of course, there are some internet monitoring programs that you download with your consent, too. There may be some real, free software you want to download. But the internet monitoring software may be included with it.
Be wary of these downloads. You will be told you have to approve a Terms and Conditions statement about 10 pages long. Deep in that text, there are words that give your consent to downloading the spyware. You should be careful that any free software you download does not contain such spyware.
Clearly, there are many types of internet monitoring software that you must avoid, so take care!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antivirus_software
"Antivirus" redirects here. For antiviral medication, see Antiviral drug.
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