Security Guide - SBB Digital Scrapbooking Forums | Scrapbook-Bytes

simi123 · #1 (**permalink**) 06-01-2007

Q: What is Spyware, Adware?

A: 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. You might have spyware or other unwanted software on your computer if:

• 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.

Spyware is often associated with software that displays advertisements (called adware) or software that tracks personal or sensitive information. That does not mean all software which provides ads or tracks your online activities is bad. For example, you might sign up for a free music service, but "pay" for the service by agreeing to receive targeted ads. If you understand the terms and agree to them, you may have decided that it is a fair tradeoff. You might also agree to let the company track your online activities to determine which ads to show you.

Other kinds of unwanted software will make changes to your computer that can be annoying and can cause your computer slow down or crash. These programs have the ability to change your Web browser's home page or search page, or add additional components to your browser you don't need or want. These programs also make it very difficult for you to change your settings back to the way you originally had them. These types of unwanted programs are also often called spyware.

The key in all cases is whether or not you (or someone who uses your computer) understand what the software will do and have agreed to install the software on your computer.

There are a number of ways spyware or other unwanted software can get on your system. A common trick is to covertly install the software during the installation of other software you want such as a music or video file sharing program. Whenever you are installing something on your computer, make sure you carefully read all disclosures, including the license agreement and privacy statement. Sometimes the inclusion of unwanted software in a given software installation is documented, but it may appear at the end of a license agreement or privacy statement.

danib · #2 (**permalink**) 06-01-2007

good reminder, although it really stinks we even have to deal with this!ARGH

Jeanne P. · #3 (**permalink**) 06-01-2007

Can totally agree....
My Grandkids have been on 'My Space' playing music and changing their backgrounds. (Does anyone have a myspace and know whether this can affect the computer)?

What about blogs/freebies & downloads (4 shared)....do they create a problem also?

My computer is such a mess, I might have to completely redo it!
Yes, I do have McAfee & Spybot on my computer.

Thanks for any help.
Jeanne

myranalis · #4 (**permalink**) 06-01-2007

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jeanne P.

What about blogs/freebies & downloads (4 shared)....do they create a problem also?

Anything you download and open/run without being 100% sure its contents are safe is a potential virus source. When it doubt scan it before opening/running it!! When seriously in doubt, don't even download it.

That being said I haven't yet seen anyone try to pass a virus off as a scrappin stuff

LDesjardin · #5 (**permalink**) 06-02-2007

Great tips. Thanks! I run my spy/adware remover about 3 times a week and get anywhere from 7-25 threats. I need to remember to update it more often though. That tells you how much your system is at risk. I don't get viruses usually and scan everyday.

I use Ad-Aware, Spybot search and destroy and AVG. Plus Zone Alarm's Firewall.

Pesto126 · #6 (**permalink**) 06-10-2007

What does this have to do with photography? looks like spam..?