Spyware and Pop-Ups, How to find them and kill them.

Recently, we are getting complaints from customers that are having trouble surfing, after some investigation we discovered that most of these issues are being caused by Spyware or Pop-up Ads.  Unfortunately, this is not something that any ISP can control at this time.  Internet users need to realize that these intrusions are not a problem with the ISP service, but just one of the hazards of the ever changing information highway.  Here is some information that could help you out when you actually run into this problem, and you eventually will.

Technical Assistance

First and foremost, do not hesitate to e-mail or call us if you ever experience any problems with your Internet service.  It may that we have to refer you to the right solution, but don't let the frustration get so high that you decide to quit the service.  That is like blaming your neighbor for a rain storm and deciding to move across town.   Doesn't make sense, but it does happen.  Email is available 24 hours a day, and we usually respond within 24 hours.  The address is tech@hometc.com.  Office hours for tech calls are 10am to 7pm Monday thru Friday Central Standard Time.  The helpdesk number for those in Ottawa or the surrounding area is 785-242-2031.  For those of you not in Ottawa, Kansas the number is 877-242-2031.

What is Spyware?

The term spyware refers to software that gathers personal information from your computer, sometimes without your knowledge.  The information is often used for advertising purposes.  Spyware may cause your computer to slow down or encounter errors.  Spyware has also been known to cause unwanted pop-up advertisements, an inability to connect to the Internet, and problems printing.

Spyware applications can be bundled as a hidden component of freeware or shareware programs that can be downloaded from the Internet.  Once installed, spyware can monitor your activity on the Internet and transmit that information to a third party.  Some forms of spyware can gather information about e-mail addresses, passwords, and even credit card numbers.

A common way to get spyware is through installation of file-swapping programs that are used to download music and movies from the Internet.

What are Pop-ups?

Pop-ups are advertisement.  A new browser "pop-ups" and informs you of all the neat stuff available out there.  But sometimes, too many pop-ups can cause your browser to lock-up.  They can even cause your computer to freeze.  Pop-ups come from web sites that want to sell you something.  They are often downloaded as cookies and then activate ANYTIME you open your browser.

What Can I do About Spyware?

There are several programs geared to remove spyware here are just a few:

Ad-Aware

One of the best and easiest to use shareware programs.  And best of all, it is free to use.  Just go to http://lavasoft.element5.com/software/adaware/  where you can download it for free.  Another option is to send us an e-mail and we can e-mail it too you. 

Norton Antivirus

If you are running Norton Antivirus 2003 as your anti-virus client, you can navigate to Norton Upgrade to purchase an upgrade that includes the additional anti-spyware protection features found in Norton Antivirus 2004.  Or call HomeTown Computers at 785-242-1451 and ask for Wes.  He can give you the latest pricing on getting Norton Antivirus.  Many times at a significant savings.

McAfee

If you are running McAfee as your anti-virus client, you can navigate to the following link for an upgrade to include the additional anti-spyware protection features by using the Live Update feature of McAfee.

"How Do I Scan for Unwanted Programs Using Mcafee VirusScan?"

Third Party Software

There are a number of applications available for download from the Internet that may also help you remove unwanted software applications from your system.  To find or learn more about these applications, simply search the Internet using your favorite search engine.

These software applications are available for download from the Internet at no cost to you and are often referred to as freeware. These applications generally do not include any formal technical support or any warranty as to their effectiveness or against damage to your system.

Again Office hours for tech calls are 10am to 7pm Monday thru Friday Central Standard Time.  The helpdesk number for those in Ottawa or the surrounding area is 785-242-2031.  For those of you not in Ottawa, Kansas the number is 877-242-2031.

Author:  Ed Baldridge