Ms Mindy Matter's Profile
Ms Mindy Matter's articles
Spyware is notorious for doing things in the background that cause your PC to slow to a crawl. Sometimes these programs make changes to your desktop and can even turn off security programs and the firewall.
Posted: 2010-06-01
Category: Software
Adware, or advertising software can be more than a general nuisance. Some forms of advertising software simply play or display themselves on just about any site you visit, i.e. banners. Other forms of advertising software are actually privacy invasive. Often times a free download may be bundled with adware in exchange for the right to use the program for free. This is known as shareware. The program monitors your browsing habits. It is not done to damage your computer but will instead give related information on products you seem interested in. The information obtained is then passed on to third parties without your knowledge or permission. The companies doing this argue this is done to offset cost. Tip: Do NOT click on pop-up ads.
Posted: 2010-05-27
Category: Software
Internet monitoring software is a tool used for monitoring the internet activities of children and employees or anybody who happens to be using a computer. Employers need to protect their business by making sure that all employees follow proper security precautions. There are different types of monitoring software which depend on the actual need of the customer. The software that is used by parents will usually be different from software used by businesses. This is because there will be more computers to keep tack of in a business.
Posted: 2010-05-27
Category: Software
Rogue antivirus programs like Digital Protection are known for the use of annoying pop-ups and continual scan results. While a nuisance, it is important to take immediate steps to remove Digital Protection so you can maintain optimal performance and safety for your computer.
Posted: 2010-05-23
Category: Software
Security warnings, pop-ups, sluggish computer operation: there is something going on with your computer, but what? One of the pop-ups tells you that you have several security threats and should install their protection immediately. Before you do, find out what is really going on with your computer. It is likely that you have a rogue antivirus program in your system.
Posted: 2010-05-23
Category: Software
While they go by scores of different names, rogue antivirus programs typically behave in very similar ways. The silver lining of having a program like AntiVirus Soft in your system is that it is relatively easy to recognize if you know the warning signs.
Posted: 2010-05-17
Category: Software
What is the best way to keep your computer secure and running optimally? Having a trusted antivirus program is one of the best methods, so it is important to know which programs will provide the best service, and which, like Cleanup Antivirus, are rogues.
Posted: 2010-05-17
Category: Software
Rogue antivirus programs go by many different names, but they all share a common goal. After creating an elaborate ad campaign designed to create the illusion of security threats, the hope is that computer users will purchase their ineffective and money-wasting program. It is helpful to know the signs of a rogue program like AntiVirus 7 so you can avoid irritation and potential issues with your computer.
Posted: 2010-05-15
Category: Software
Simulated scan results, pop-up after pop-up, slow loading times, frequent redirects: these are all signs of a rogue antivirus program. What are these programs? How do you recognize them? And how do programs like Antivir affect your computer?
Posted: 2010-05-13
Category: Software
Piracy, particularly in music, has become exceptionally easy, and because of the wide availability and accessibility of digital media, copyright violations have never been so widespread. Many people aren’t even aware if and when they are violating copyrights or illegally using intellectual property. A new Trojan is hoping to capitalize on this confusion. The Antipiracy Foundation Scanner is using increased attention on digital piracy as a pressure tactic for computer users everywhere.
Posted: 2010-05-01
Category: Software
These days, cyber attacks are reported worldwide so that unsuspecting individuals can become aware of new and unique cyber threats and viruses as soon as they occur. In February 2010, a new computer virus infected over 75,000 computers all over the world, and it was reported in every major news outlet so that everyday computer users could be made aware of the threat. The virus is known at the “Kneber virus” or “Kneber botnet” and it is one of the most powerful and sophisticated computer viruses imaginable. The Kneber Virus is dangerous because it has the capability of recording personal login information, and other sensitive material from financial and social networking websites as well as personal e-mail accounts.
Posted: 2010-04-11
Category: Software
When was the last time you walked into an electronics store? These days, technology helps us do almost everything. From changing the way we watch television to keeping a digital grocery list on our refrigerators, technology truly is shifting the way we live, and our personal computers are an important part of that. The biggest problem for many PC owners, though, is staying safe, and if you think AntiMalware is installed on your computer, you may not be as safe as you could be.
Posted: 2010-02-26
Category: Software
We tend to think computers are invulnerable. After all, they essentially run our lives these days, right? Those who have had a single computer problem, though, know better. All too often, hardware and software problems alike can create very real problems that leave us little choice but machine replacement, which is not only expensive, but time consuming as well. If Additional Guard is your problem, though, you don’t have to worry about machine replacement. There are several simple removal techniques you can try.
Posted: 2010-02-26
Category: Software
The security of both your machine and your information is key these days, and that is why so many computer owners choose to install virus protection as soon as they get their computers. After all, it’s essential to get up and running online, isn’t it? It’s also why so many people get confused when they see a virus protection program pop up on their computers suggesting they have serious infection problems. Lots click on the buttons hoping to fix the problem, but if Personal Security is the name of the protections software you see on the machine, the problem isn’t with your computer, but with the program itself.
Posted: 2010-02-23
Category: Software
Computers have become necessary in everyday life. We use them for everything – from looking for groceries and coupons for groceries to contacting employees or co-workers and to keeping up with friends and family. That is why, when your computer crashes, you’re likely to be panicking a bit. It is natural to panic when your computer crashes, but the trick is to remain calm and to figure out what has caused your computer to malfunction. It could be from a virus, it could be from a worm, or it might be rogue security software like Internet Security 2010.
Posted: 2010-02-23
Category: Software
Security experts estimate that more than fifty million attempts are made to install rogue security programs on individual desktop, laptop, and netbook computers every year. Numbers like that can be overwhelming to computer users everywhere, and as each new problem program is introduced, the risks only increase. One such program, Advanced Virus Remover, has proven difficult for users across the globe.
Posted: 2010-02-18
Category: Software
We have become a generation of individuals who are never caught without computer access. If you don’t have your laptop or netbook handy, it’s just as easy to access the internet via your iPhone or Blackberry. Without this combination of devices, you’re likely to feel lost and confused. Online access, and the gadgets that go with that, have become a mainstay in our lives, and it’s important to the way our world works. Unfortunately, there are a few out there who create problem programs on our machine that not only annoy us, but cause a variety of problems as well. While it goes by many names, some of the most creative ones are rogue antispyware applications like Malware Defense.
Posted: 2010-02-18
Category: Software
The purchase of a new desktop or laptop computer can be an extremely satisfying one. After all, you suddenly have a blank slate to deal with, and brand new machines never come with viruses, spyware, or other problem malware to fight with. If you’ve ever fought those kinds of issues in the past, the idea of a blank slate might be a fairly exciting one. Just because the computer reaches your hands in order, though, it won’t stay that way without proper protection. Choosing the first name off the shelf, however, will do you little good. Names like Antivirus Live are a bit deceptive in the long run, as they’re likely to be more of a problem than a solid solution.
Posted: 2010-02-12
Category: Software
Protecting your PC is important; it is the means of not only entertainment for many people, it is how they work, how they communicate, how they study. For most, it plays more than one important role. Because we need our computers for a wide variety of reasons, we need to make sure they are protected. It is possible for Trojans to enter our systems, and they may bring with them rogue antivirus programs, such as TrustFighter.
Posted: 2009-12-27
Category: Software
Many people use their computers for work or school. Others use them to communicate with family and friends, for accessing entertainment, news, and information. No matter what you use your computer for, it is important to keep it in optimal running condition. If it is not, it is possible that there is a rogue antivirus program, such as TrustSoldier, installed in your system.
Posted: 2009-12-27
Category: Software
Filters normally block most pop-ups from ever seeing our screen, so if you notice an influx of these ads, it is a good indication that there is a rogue antivirus program, like Trust Cop, installed in your system. These rogue programs seek to convince computer users of security threats so they will purchase their software. However, users will find out that the “protection” does not protect.
Posted: 2009-12-20
Category: Software
If your computer normally runs very smoothly, you may wonder why it has suddenly started to operate more slowly or why you are seeing more pop-ups than before. These can signal that a rogue antivirus program has been downloaded into your system. A rogue program, like Total Security, will create the appearance of security threats and then claim to be the only solution for these risks.
Posted: 2009-12-20
Category: Software
Unusually slow computer performance, increased pop-up ads, and changed browser settings point to the presence of a rogue antivirus program in your system. These programs aim to persuade computer users to buy their software in order to resolve security threats. These “threats,” though, are created by programs like Security Tool and the software will offer no protection.
Posted: 2009-12-17
Category: Software
Computers are for much more than entertainment, though that is an important facet too. But many people work, study, go to college, and communicate with friends, family, and clients with their computer. It is their source of news and information. For all these reasons, it is important to protect our computers. If you have noticed several issues, including pop-ups and slow performance, it could indicate that you have rogue antivirus program installed in your system. Programs like SecureFighter seek to convince users to buy their software, which is ultimately useless.
Posted: 2009-12-13
Category: Software
While people use their computers for very different reasons, one thing they have in common is the desire to protect them and their personal information. Rogue antivirus programs like SecureWarrior seek to use this desire to protect in order to persuade computer users to purchase useless software. Knowing about these programs is important so you can both protect your system and your wallet.
Posted: 2009-12-13
Category: Software
Millions depend on their computers for school, work, information, entertainment, and communication. Keeping it safe is essential so our systems perform when we need them to. If you see pop-ups warning of security risks, does this mean that there are problems in your system? It does, but not the problems that the pop-ups claim. Safety Center and other rogue antivirus programs try to convince computer users to install their ultimately useless software.
Posted: 2009-11-20
Category: Software
Rogue antivirus programs are designed to mimic legitimate security programs and seek to convince computer users of their legitimacy. From their choice of names, like SafeFigther and CyberSecurity, to their logos and slogans, they seek to imitate well-known and reputable programs. How can you tell the difference?
Posted: 2009-11-20
Category: Software
When does a minor annoyance become a major issue? Because of the sophistication of filters, it is unusual to see pop-ups. What starts as an irritating ad can turn into a situation that requires attention if it signals the presence of a rogue antivirus programs. RegClean, and others in this category, are designed to create the appearance of security threats, and then they offer to fix them. Unfortunately for computer users, the “solution” does not solve the problem.
Posted: 2009-11-13
Category: Software
When you depend on your computer for school, work, information, or communication, even minor annoyances can have a big impact. Pop-ups and slow performance can also point to an issue that needs your attention: rogue antivirus programs. Antivirus Pro 2010 and others like it use pop-ups as a tool to persuade computer users to purchase their software.
Posted: 2009-11-06
Category: Software
You may use your computer for work, your child may use it for school, and your friends may use them to keep in touch with each other. The reasons why our computers are important to us vary, but one thing all owners share is the need to protect their systems and their data. Ironically, it can be this need that develops into security issues. How? Trojans, such as the Conflicker.b spam Trojan, use the computer owners’ desire for protection in order to gain access to their systems. From there, they can usher in various forms of malware. What do you need to know about Conflicker.b?
Posted: 2009-11-06
Category: Software
What is a rogue antivirus program? What does it do? There are a lot of questions surrounding these programs, and it is essential you have the answers you need. How do you know if you have a rogue program, like CyberSecurity, installed in your system? Find your answers here so you can better protect your computer.
Posted: 2009-11-01
Category: Software
Have you noticed that your computer has been running more slowly than usual? This, coupled with an increase in pop-up ads, can indicate that you are a rogue antivirus program in your computer. AntiVirus 2010 is one such rogue program that seeks to persuade users of nonexistent security problems so they will purchase the equally nonexistent protection software.
Posted: 2009-10-28
Category: Software
Rogue antivirus programs love to use pop-ups to persuade computer users to buy their full software versions. And they can be very convincing too. It is important to learn how to recognize the rogue from the real and avoid installing useless software onto your computer. Programs like Spyware Protect offer to provide great protection but manage only to leave an empty space in your wallet.
Posted: 2009-10-08
Category: Software
Pop-ups are not a sight that we have to see much as we browse online thanks to filters. So what might cause a flood of these ads? Why do we have a lot of security warnings all of a sudden? If you notice these two signs, and some others, there is a good chance that a rogue antivirus program, such as Spyware Protect 2009, has been installed in your computer. What does this mean and what can you do?
Posted: 2009-10-03
Category: Computer
Rogue antivirus programs may have different names and slightly different behaviors, they share one goal: to persuade computer owners to purchase their software. How do they do this? By convincing them that serious security problems are present in their system. Security 2009 is no different. How can you recognize this and other rogue antivirus programs and keep your computer running normally?
Posted: 2009-09-28
Category: Software
How can you recognize a rogue antivirus program from a legitimate one? This is important in protecting your computer from both security risks and from rogue programs claiming to be able to fix them. Pop-ups are one sign that a program like Rapid Antivirus has entered your system? What else do you need to know about these programs?
Posted: 2009-09-17
Category: Software
Two of the biggest concerns among computer owners are privacy and security. The two are very much related, and it is essential that we have solid programs that can provide us with the best and latest technology to keep our personal information and activities safe. This is especially important to those working, banking, or shopping online. Because of this great concern, various rogue programs have come into existence. They promise to provide needed security and resolve threats, but they do very little to protect your computer or data. Programs like Privacy Center seek to gain your trust and convince you to buy their ineffective software.
Posted: 2009-09-11
Category: Software
Pop-ups were a brilliant idea when first created. How can you advertise to people who would otherwise not be interested? Pop an ad up right in front of them! But the novelty soon wore off as these little ads interrupted work, communication, or leisure. Today, we have filters that block these, so a sudden influx can signal a problem. Pop-ups are a favorite tool of rogue antivirus programs like MS Antispyware. Learn how to recognize these rogue programs to keep your computer in healthy running order.
Posted: 2009-09-10
Category: Broadband Internet
Everyone wants to protect their computer and data, but no one needs the aggravation of dealing with a rogue antivirus program. These use tactics such as flooding your system with pop-ups and false scan results in order to encourage you to buy their full software. Unfortunately, this software is ineffective and expensive. Learn how to recognize these programs so you can keep your computer in top running shape.
Posted: 2009-09-04
Category: Software
One of the wonderfully useful inventions of the internet age is the pop-up blocker. These filter out these irritating ads so we can browse websites without interruption. If you suddenly receive an influx of these intrusive little pop-ups, then it may indicate the presence of a rogue antivirus program. Pop-ups are a favorite tool of programs like Internet Antivirus Pro. How can you recognize this program as a rogue, and what should you do to keep your system running at its peak?
Posted: 2009-08-29
Category: Software
Pop-ups, slow computers, a hijacked homepage what could be going on with your computer? These signs point to the presence of a rogue antivirus program. There are a variety of these programs, all of which share the goal of persuading computer users to buy their expensive software. IE Security is one of these programs that it pays to be able to recognize and avoid.
Posted: 2009-08-26
Category: Software
Having a computer means having a good antivirus program. These are invaluable in keeping our systems and information safe. This is what makes rogue antivirus programs so effective in gaining computer users trust. We all know we need protection, and these programs say that they will give it to us. However, it is essential that we recognize rogue from real and take steps to protect our computers. Antivirus-1 and others in this group have the sole purpose of getting users to buy their ineffective software. How can we avoid this?
Posted: 2009-08-23
Category: Software
Rogue antivirus programs exist for one reason: to convince computer users to purchase their expensive, and ultimately useless, software. They do this through a variety of means and under different names, but they typically behave in very similar ways. If we can recognize the characteristics of programs like Antivirus Pro, we can avoid them more easily and keep our computers running in top form.
Posted: 2009-08-14
Category: Software
There are many legitimate and valid reasons why programs that track keystrokes and website visits may be installed on certain computers. Parents may be concerned about which sites their young children have exposure to or schools may try to curb access to questionable sites. But there are also potentially harmful applications when these programs are installed without your knowledge or consent. Is it possible that a program like Webwatcher is tracking your online movements?
Posted: 2009-08-10
Category: Software
In the early days of the internet, pop-up ads were seen as a revolutionary new way to advertise products to those who would not otherwise be interested. By literally popping up, these ads were far more noticeable, and irritating. Filters to block these messages became commonplace, and our exposure to pop-ups decreased markedly. When you do see an increase in pop-ups, then, it may indicate the presence of a rogue program in your system.
Posted: 2009-08-06
Category: Software
Many things can cause your computer system to run more slowly than usual, from being overloaded with space-hogging programs to hardware issues like not enough memory. If you are noticing a substantial slowdown in performance, as well as some other telltale symptoms, you may have rogue program such as About:Blank installed in your system.
Posted: 2009-08-01
Category: Software
WinPC Defender sounds like it may help with your computer security needs, so many feel obligated to purchase the full version of the program. However, most security experts indicate its better to remove WinPC Defender than leave it on your system.
Posted: 2009-07-19
Category: Software
Virus Remover 2009 might seem like it would be a fairly useful program, but most users have found that its more troublesome than helpful. Deleting this program from your computer is your best bet.
Posted: 2009-07-17
Category: Software
Computer safety is a top priority in todays society. Not all of the applications that look as if they were designed to help you stay safe, though, are as reputable as others. In fact, some are classified as rogue security software that simply wont help your system at all. System Security 2009 is one of the many rogue applications out there. Best removed from your machine immediately, this program is a frustration for many.
Posted: 2009-07-14
Category: Software
If youre like most computer owners these days, youre probably a bit concerned about spyware and malware. Given the damage these kinds of applications can do, its hard not to be worried about it. Staying safe is easy with antispyware applications, but its not as simple as just grabbing the first convincing application you see, though. SpywareRemover 2009 is one application that probably wont help much in your fight against spyware, and if its part of your hard drive, removing it is the best move you can make.
Posted: 2009-07-13
Category: Software
There are many antivirus programs out there today, but a few of them arent as worthwhile as they should be. Personal Antivirus is one of the many concerning programs out there today that advertises itself as the solution to your problem, yet causes more difficulties than it should.
Posted: 2009-07-12
Category: Software
Often times, registry cleaners get lost in the rush to get the fastest, newest and most up to date anti virus, anti spyware or firewall program currently out on the market. Registry cleaners are, in fact, just as important as these programs because they are specially suited to cleaning out your registry. A good registry cleaner has the ability to remove viruses that even the most advanced anti virus program cant. Best of all, some of the most advanced registry cleaners on the market today are absolutely free, but you do need to be careful that you download them from a trusted source.
Posted: 2009-07-10
Category: Software
When most people think of Kernel 32 Dll errors, they get flashbacks to Windows 95, 98 and 2000. The mere idea of these types of errors happening today, with operating systems like Vista and the new Microsoft 7 seem crazy, but they really do happen. Thankfully, these types of errors are much less common than they were even five years ago, and early signs point to an even further reduction in future operating systems. However, if you are falling victim to of Kernel 32 Dll errors, it is important that you understand just what this file does on your computer, how things became messed up and what you can do to prevent future of Kernel 32 Dll errors.
Posted: 2009-07-08
Category: Software
In lots of different ways, your PC might look like a deceptively simple tool. At a glance, you probably just see a metal box with a couple of lights, some plugs, the monitor, and a few little tools hooked up to it. Taking it apart, though, may help you understand how overwhelmingly complicated it is. There are literally stacks of files, lines of code, and huge amounts of data that your computer must process in a certain order to simply go through the start of each session. Because there is an overwhelming amount of things to do, error messages of one kind or another are bound to occur at some point in time. For lots of PC owners, a typical error message is a .dll error, and technical support people deal with them on an almost hourly basis. With some of these errors, the only way to move forward is to start over and reinstall the operating system. Before you decide your .dll error is that serious, though, you may want to take a few moments to understand the bigger picture.
Posted: 2009-07-06
Category: Software
With every new operating system from Windows, hopes are high that previous error messages that dogged previous operating systems will permanently become a thing of the past. While the number of reported Win32 error messages from Windows Vista are significantly down from pervious versions, they are still a fact of life. If you are still one of the many hold outs using Windows XP, you are likely very familiar with Win32 error messages. Lets take a look at what this error actually means, how you can avoid getting them and how you can fix them once and for all.
Posted: 2009-07-03
Category: Software
If you could calculate all of the different ways Microsoft has contributed to modern society, an overwhelming percentage of that calculation would be positive. However, there are a few contributions that can be described as nothing but negative. The dreaded Blue Screen, often called the Blue Screen of Death, is known far and wide as a productivity killer. Thankfully, Microsoft has instituted automatic saving mechanisms in many of their programs that help negate the worst aspect of the Blue Screen, but if you are unlucky enough to get the Blue Screen while working in a non-Microsoft program, you might just be out of luck. Lets take a look at what this error message means and how you can avoid it in the future.
Posted: 2009-07-01
Category: Software
No matter how advanced the current crop of operating systems is, errors will always be present. Microsoft can spend all the money they want refining things, but as long as human programmers are responsible for coming up with the code, hackers, virus makers and other internet bad guys will find ways to mess things up. If you have been the subject of rundll errors in the past, you know how frustrating they can be. Thankfully, Vista has come up with automatic save mechanisms in programs like Microsoft Word that can save your work before your machine automatically restarts, but if you are using a non-Microsoft program that doesnt have a feature like that, a rundll error can cost you a full days worth of work. Before we look at why these errors happen and what you can do to avoid getting them in the first place, let us take a look at what this file is and why you need it on your computer in the first place.
Posted: 2009-06-29
Category: Software
With all of the amazing technological advancements in the world of computers and on the internet, it is amazing to think that we are still battling the same error messages that we got back when we were switching from Windows 3.1 to Windows 95. Thankfully, Rundll32 problems are significantly less common today than they were 15 years ago, but they can still be a major issue if you happen to run into them. In Windows Vista, there have been a whole host of Rundll32 problems reported, and there is even word out that the same problem exists in the new Windows 7. Since it appears that we wont be separating ourselves from issues regarding Rundll32.exe, let us take a look at what this file is, why it is so important, and where you may have gotten your Rundll32 problem from in the first place.
Posted: 2009-06-26
Category: Software
Computer security is essential in todays world, and there are a lot of programs out there that may make it seem like its easy to keep your computer safe. Unfortunately, though, thats not always the case, and programs like Antivirus 360 arent much help. If this difficult program has already become part of your system, removing it at your earliest convenience is the only thing to do.
Posted: 2009-06-03
Category: Software
Making sure you dont have viruses or spyware on your computer is essential to the health of your machine. Lots of programs have convincing names that make them sound like they were created to help you in that task, but some of them arent as good as they sound. If Antivirus 2009 is part of your program lineup, getting rid of it is probably your best bet.
Posted: 2009-05-25
Category: Software
Many people use the terms worm, virus, and Trojan horse on an almost interchangeable basis. While each of these is something you may want to prevent from entering your computer, they are not the same thing, and understanding the difference may be the key to protecting your computer. While all three are concerning, the Trojan horse works much like the mythology it was named for. Initially, it will seem like software that is both helpful and necessary to your computer. Once you have installed it, though, it reveals its true nature and can hurt your operating system.
Posted: 2009-05-01
Category: Software
Spyware has been a problem for internet users for years, but increasingly, more people are understanding the techniques necessary to protect themselves from this problem. At the heart of the matter is the term itself. Spyware is essentially software that is quietly installed on an individuals computer. In most cases, it has the ability to use the information on that computer or take control of the computer without the users consent. Fortunately, you can protect your computer, and these tips can help.
Posted: 2009-04-29
Category: Software
Almost as long as people have been using the internet, theyve encountered malware problems. Malware is the combination of the words malicious and software, and in most cases, it is able to enter a users computer even without their knowledge or consent. Unfortunately, it can have quite a few consequences on your computer, so there are several things you may want to do to protect your PC against Malware.
Posted: 2009-04-22
Category: Software
An increasingly common problem, rogue antispyware programs use a computer users vulnerabilities and fear of hackers gaining access to their computer to sell their products. They claim to offer protection when in reality their software has entered your computer at the very moment you thought you were being protected. The word spyware automatically brings visions of espionage and intrigue to mind, so it strikes a measure of fear with good reason. There are always those unscrupulous types of people who are forever trying to dig their way into your informational database to spy on your activities and steal your valuable data. It would only be reasonable to assume that anti spyware often completely necessary. Unfortunately, because of rogue antispyware programs, this isnt always true.
Posted: 2009-04-20
Category: Software
The term rogue antivirus is often a frightening one, but in the case of personal computers, this term simply refers to a piece of software that uses a variety of concerning tools to install itself on your machine or at least advertise its existence. Rogue antivirus programs work with computer users fears of having their machines infected and damaged by a virus that has somehow entered their system. The word antivirus sounds like the antidote, or cure, to the problem. Rogue antiviruses, on the other hand, can often be the start of a computer users problems.
Posted: 2009-04-19
Category: Software
A registry cleaner sounds like something useful for your computer, right? A rogue registry cleaner, however, is something very different. While they may claim to help clean-up your computer and optimize its performance, in most cases, theyll do exactly the opposite.
Posted: 2009-04-15
Category: Software
Within the world of computing, there are those who study systems, networks, and programming extensively to further the field of computer science. Unfortunately, there are those who study those same areas to take advantage of other computer users. Dubbed hackers, these individuals can create problem programs, take control of networks, and cause all sorts of difficulties for users. Fortunately, there are a number of things you can do to protect you PC against hackers.
Posted: 2009-04-07
Category: Software
Its in the news frequently, and many security websites list it among their top ten concerns for computer users. Drive by downloads happen on an increasing basis, and while it may be a frightening term, a drive by download is fairly easy to understand. Typically initiated by an automated process, not the computer user, these are automated downloads not requested by the consumer. In many cases, the site youre working with will seem to call for an additional piece of software before the site works properly. Usually, the user will see a pop-up suggesting that in order to fully experience the site, you have to click here to download the right software. However, clicking simply gives the program full access to your computer and orders the installation of software you werent initially notified about.
Posted: 2009-04-02
Category: Software
It seems that computer worms have been around almost as long as the web itself. Just a few years ago, users were worried about MyDoom. Before that, it was fear over SoBig, the SQL Slammer Worm, and the Blaster Worm. In 1999, it was the Melissa Worm. At the heart of the matter is the computer worms themselves. Unlike viruses, worms are programs that can make copies of themselves across any given network.
Posted: 2009-03-30
Category: Software
When you want to visit a website, in most cases, you simply type in the address, and take a look at your site. What if the address you typed in, though, didnt take you to the site you wanted to visit? What if you were suddenly staring at a very different site? Situations like these are called browser hijacks.
Posted: 2009-03-27
Category: Software
While many might believe that software smart enough to only show you websites and advertisements tailored to your needs is the best thing that could happen, those who have actually experienced adware may disagree. Adware is a piece of software that automatically shows advertisements after the software is installed. It can show them while youre online or offline, often in the form of a pop up. In many cases adware is installed without your knowledge or consent. In some cases, adware only works with a specific application, like your web browser. In many other cases, though, once installed, adware will constantly display advertisements of all types any time the computer is one. This can not only cause privacy concerns, but it can also use valuable system resources. As a result, protecting your PC against adware is a good idea. Following these steps may help.
Posted: 2009-03-22
Category: Software
In most cases, if a stranger came up to you to ask for your credit card number or other sensitive personal information, you probably wouldnt be very willing to offer it up, but by using the anonymity of the internet, those who create phishing scams get you to do exactly that give your personal data to complete strangers. The term phishing scam refers to programs that attempt to gain data about an individual or an individuals financial information. That data is then used for a variety of purposes. Avoiding them is absolutely necessary, and these tips may help.
Posted: 2009-03-19
Category: Software
These days, it seems everyone is discussing the problem of identity theft. Statistics have shown that more than nine million Americans have fallen prey to this crime, and worldwide statistics are much higher. Whats at stake is fairly important. If your identity is stolen, you could not only lose quite a bit of money, but your credit rating as well, and that can be seriously damaging. Whats more, though, is that youll have to deal with the time and hassle of restoring your identity once its gone. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to avoid identity theft before it happens to you.
Posted: 2009-03-16
Category: Software
Browser toolbars can be very helpful. They can make short work of internet searches and keep some of your favorite utilities close at hand. However, some toolbars are not what they seem. While some are helpful amenities, others can compromise the security of your PC.
Posted: 2009-03-14
Category: Software
Going on-line is like being a small-town guy going to New York City. You dont blink for fear of missing something amazing. Youve got access to anything you want, but it seems like theres someone around every corner, just itching to pick your pocket. For nearly every opportunity on-line there is a corresponding internet scam.
Posted: 2009-03-12
Category: Software
