Know How Spyware Infect Computer Systems
There are many ways where spyware applications gain access to computer systems : some of these include enticing users to click a link that initiates installation, using free-filing systems, and exploiting holes in the web browser security system.
Some spyware authors bundle them with desirable software. This is known as piggy backing. The Bonzi Buddy, a program intended for children, comes bundled with spyware. The Trojan Horse method, is another known ploy. Another trick has some spyware masquerading as security software .
There are less obvious tricks to infect user’s computers and these are more difficult to detect. For example who can say that a certain link is a trap, that clicking on it will open the door for spyware entry? Who can tell that a title bar is a fake and closing it will initiate the installation of the spyware? Who can tell whether an open dialogue box that has cancelled itself automatically is actually part of the process of installing a spyware?
Music CDs, sharewares and some downloadable software can come bundled with spyware. While these programs do not affect the normal functioning of the computer the spyware does. There are instances when makers of legitimate programs get paid by the spyware authors to bundle their programs with spyware. Sometimes the latter resort to adding spyware to installers of desirable free software to spread them.
Spyware, however, are not always introduced stealthily. Some are installed along with desirable programs. The difference is that the user consent to it.
Removal of the accompanying spyware disables the parent program.
Another method to spread spyware is by exploiting security holes in the web browser, e-mail client or operating system. Spyware author controlled web pages are supplied with codes that attack the browser and force it to install spyware once the user navigates the page. Some spyware are installed without the intervention of the user whatsoever. These are called “drive-by downloads’ which can happen by simply visiting an infected website, or by clicking on an innocent looking pop-up window or an advertisement pop-up.
Websites also exploit the vulnerabilities of Windows Metafile, Internet explorer and Sun Microsystems Java runtime to spread spyware. Researchers at Google discovered that in April 2007, hundreds of thousands of web pages are engaged in “drive-by downloads”.
Spyware are burdens that users have to contend with as long as they use the internet. Until such times that internet security measures are made impenetrable, users have to practice discipline in their browsing habits to limit the damages of spyware.
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