Trojan spyware gains access to computer systems disguised as harmless software and tracks information about users. It can be downloaded unknowingly and may redirect web browsers or steal personal information. It weakens a computer’s defenses and can lead to additional malware. Anti-spyware programs are necessary for protection and efficient computer performance.
Trojan spyware, which is privacy-invasive software named after the famous Greek fable about the Trojan horse, gains access to computer systems disguised as something harmless. After this malware is installed, the program performs any number of malicious activities, depending on the author’s intended intent, but the spyware primarily tracks information about computer users. While generally hidden and unnoticed by users, Trojan spyware is believed to weaken a computer’s defenses, increasing the likelihood of further invasive programs. Spyware doesn’t have the replication properties of viruses and worms, but a Trojan can be transferred from one system to another by attaching itself to a downloadable item or other infection. Adequate computer security must include some type of anti-spyware program.
People can unknowingly download Trojan spyware in a variety of ways. Individuals could acquire the software from an email joke passed from one friend to another or by downloading a popular image. Occasionally, a pop-up will appear on a website warning that your computer has a serious virus. The ad suggests running an immediate scan and invites users to download a product that it claims will protect the user’s computer. More often than not, however, Trojan spyware accompanies the download.
Operating secretly in the background while you use your computer, the Trojan spyware may monitor your browsing behavior. This detailed information about your online activity is often transferred to another computer for advertising and marketing purposes. Some spyware redirects users’ web browsers or directs people to specific sites. When used for identity theft, Trojan spyware lurks behind the scenes as a means to gather various types of valuable personal information. Thieves often wait for infested computers to reveal names, account numbers, credit card numbers, identification numbers, files, and passwords.
Besides revealing sensitive information, Trojan spyware could open the door for additional malware. Each additional infection starts affecting the system performance. Computers may freeze during operation, or spyware may cause a computer to slow down. Just like the symptoms of a virus, a system may fail to boot or crash. Trojan spyware combined with other malware can disarm firewalls or render antivirus software ineffective.
Individuals may resort to a total cleanup of the computer by reinstalling the operating system and other necessary programs. Incorporating spyware protection as part of your online security prevents many diseases. Some antivirus programs provide spyware protection, but many others don’t. Efficient spyware software not only protects your information, but also keeps your computer running smoothly. Spyware blocker and spyware removal programs search operating system files, registries, and installed software for possible threats.
Available as free downloads or for purchase, anti-spyware programs come with a variety of features. Some of these run in real time, alerting users to possible threats as they browse the web. Simple programs require a hand-picked scan, and more advanced software allows users to schedule regular scans. Upon completion of the scan, programs typically provide a list of suspected threats, along with a choice to keep or delete potentially harmful files.
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