FAQ - Viruses and Spyware

What is Spyware, and how do I know if I have it?

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. If you encounter any of the symptoms described above, and are concerned that you may have spyware, our "Downloads" page has several programs that can help you clear these pests off your computer.

What is the difference between a virus, a worm, and a Trojan Horse?

1. File-Infecting Viruses - This is the most common type of virus. A file-infecting virus attaches itself to an executable program file by adding its own code to the file. An executable program file can be run like any other program, and has an .EXE extension (i.e. in the filename virus.exe, the .exe is the extention). The virus code is usually added in such a way that it escapes detection. When the infected file is run, the virus can attach itself to other executable files. Files infected by this type of virus usually have a .COM, .EXE, or .SYS extension. Damage to data occurs when the virus is triggered. A virus can be triggered when an infected file is executed, or when a particular environment setting is met (such as a specific system date).
2. Trojan Horse Programs - A Trojan horse program disguises itself as a legitimate program such as a game or utility, but once it is executed, it can destroy or scramble data. A Trojan horse program can contain viruses, but is not a virus itself.
3. Worms - A worm is an independent program that replicates itself, crawling from machine to machine across network connections. It often clogs networks as it spreads, often via e-mail.