Computer Repairs Townsville and Spyware

Nine out of every ten times a Townsville computer technician comes to someones house in Townsville is because of Spyware.  If your computer is playing up, running slow or simply acting different all of the sudden, you may have Spyware on your computer.

What is spyware?

“Spyware is computer software that is installed surreptitiously
on a personal computer to intercept or take partial control
over the user’s interaction with the computer,
without the user’s informed consent.”

Although the name suggests that Spyware is used to spy on your computer, it in fact does far much more than that.  With estimates that 80% of computers are infected with some form of Spyware strain, Spyware has fast become a very serious security risk to your computer and private information.

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How is Spyware usually installed on your computer?

Spyware is often installed as part of a 3rd party software package, without the users knowledge. Once installed, the software then proceeds to gather information about the users browsing habits and can sometimes monitor and track other personal information. Spyware has now become a broad term for any software operating without the users consent, which somehow benefits a 3rd party. Some direct effects include:

  • Adding affiliate links to shopping portals
  • Monitoring internet activity
  • Install other 3rd party applications
  • Adding new homepages, icons and favorite links
  • Identity Theft
  • Sluggish PC

What can you do?

  1. Make sure you are running an up to date Antivirus software package.
  2. Keep your firewall on.
  3. Update your Operating Systems security and patch definitions frequently.
  4. Don’t install software you are not sure is 100% Spyware Free.
  5. Be careful what you open through your email and web browser.
  6. Use a security enabled Web Browser such and Firefox.

If you have any problems with your computer or you think you might have Spyware on your system call a Townsville Computer Technician on 0402 807 890 for a free on site, No Obligation Quote!

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