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Division of IT: Security
Make IT Safe: Spyware & Phishing ScamsThree emerging internet threats include spyware, phishing scams, and key logging. All of these techniques can be used by computer hackers to obtain your personal information. Hackers can use these types of technology to obtain your credit card numbers, read your personal e-mail, track every web page you visit, or even steal your identity. It is very important to be aware of these threats and to learn to respond appropriately. Use the information on this page to help protect your information assets from these common problems.What is Spyware?Spyware, also called adware, is software that is hidden on your computer that gathers personal information about you and your Internet use habits. The software then relays it to advertisers, marketing groups and others who use the information to target you with pop-up ads.How Does Spyware Affect My Computer?Spyware is somewhat similar to a computer virus because it can affect your computer in the following ways. It can cause:
How Did I Get It?Spyware is usually installed without your knowledge when you install a legitimate software package. Sometimes the fine print of the license agreement includes the information about the spyware component but not always. For example, when installing certain freeware software like weather monitoring software or peer-to-peer software like KaZaa, you will also install up to six spyware applications on your system.How Can I Get Rid of It?Spyware is hidden so it is difficult to recognize and remove. Spyware programs run in the background and consume significant amount of memory and cpu speed. Thus the applications you need to use do not perform at their best. There are two free programs you can use to scan your system for spyware. Spybot and AdAware. AdAware is available at CNET.Tips for Avoiding Spyware
What are Phishing Scams?Phishing scams are a relatively new form of Internet fraud that are becoming increasingly prevalant. This high-tech scam uses spam or pop-up messages to trick users into disclosing credit card numbers, bank account information, Social Security number or other confidential information.How do Phishing Scams Work?Phishers send an e-mail or pop-up message that claims to be from a business or organization that you might deal with — for instance, your Internet Service Provider (ISP), online payment services, or bank. Often, this e-mail or pop-up window is very official looking and might even contain a corporate logo. The message usually indicates the need to "update" or "validate" your account information. It then directs you to a Web site that looks just like a legitimate organization's site, but it isn't. When you visit the Web site, it requests personal information that the operators then use to steal your identity or commit crimes in your name.How Can I Avoid a Phishing Scam?
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