Spyware is Dangerous for Computer Users
Cybersecurity is Part of the Administration’s Priorities
Jun 4, 2009
Whenever James Bond would order a martini (shaken, not stirred) he probably wondered if the drink was spiked. Well, it just so happens that a lot of computer programs are "spiked."
Spyware is not a specific program you download and install. It's not that obvious. Spyware resides in other programs so someone does not even know they are installing it. It's stealth. Definitely James Bond stuff.
Spyware Tracks Information and Damages Computer Systems
Once it gains access to a system, the spyware program tracks the user’s movements and relays them to the publisher of whichever program installed it on the system in the first place.
Then, whenever a user downloads a file or visits a website, that information is forwarded to the publisher, along with the user’s personal IP address, making it easy to assemble a personal picture and history of the user’s computing activities and sell the information to advertisers who then direct ads to the user for specific items.
Plus, spyware can change a computer’s settings and cause damage to the system.
Anti-Spyware Programs Help Computer Users Keep One Step Ahead of the Bad Guys
There are several programs that any computer user can purchase or download for free that will scan the system for spyware. If a file is discovered on a computer, it is best to delete that file unless the user knows that it is necessary in order to run a special program. Even in this case, it’s in the user’s best interest to remove that program if it is not something he or she actually needs.
Identity theft is on the rise and spyware is one way people gain access to information about others. In this day and age, it is difficult to keep information private, and any little thing a person can do to lessen someone else’s access to their information is one less thing to worry about.
Spyware is just another piece of the safe computing puzzle about which all computer users should be aware. Diligence and knowledge are the only defense in this age of technology.
President Obama Makes Cybersecurity a Priority
This is such an important issue that President Obama has made it a priority in his administration. Speaking in the White House on May 29, 2009, the president said, “America's economic prosperity in the 21st century will depend on cybersecurity.”
Cybersecurity involves keeping hackers out of places they are not supposed to be, keeping viruses out of computer systems, and keeping spyware and malware (malicious software that can penetrate and damage a computer) out of systems as well. “Cyberspace is real. And so are the risks that come with it.” President Obama stated.
