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Spies in your Computer

Identity Safeguards © November 2003

What if someone put a program on your computer that recorded every keystroke, every bit of information you typed in? They would have access to all the emails you’ve written, all the online forms you’ve filled out, all the websites you’ve typed in, you name it. The information could be devastating if it was used to steal your identity and raid your personal accounts.

Now here’s the scary part: programs like that exist, their use is becoming more common, and they’re called “spyware”.

Spyware is a type of computer program that tracks a person’s activities on the internet. The software is used to collect marketing information, like the types of websites a person visits, and customize targeted advertising in the form of pop-ups or banner ads.

How did it get on my computer?

More often than not, spyware is installed on a person’s computer without their knowledge. Consent for the installation, however, is usually given. How can someone agree to something and not know it?

When you install a program you are usually directed to a licensing screen containing pages of small-print legalese. To install the software you must agree with the company’s terms and conditions. Companies that include spyware in their installation programs will add a sentence or two about it in the agreement. It’s there, but you’ll probably never read it. After you complete the installation the spyware will begin to legally obtain information from you and transmit it back to the company of origin.

What is being done to help the problem?

The whole process may sound deceptive, and it is, but there is little regulation and both companies and identity thieves are taking full advantage.

So far, spyware has been used mainly as a tool for marketers. Proponents of the software prefer the term “adware” to describe the technology. Despite attempts to cast spyware in a favorable light, the potential for malicious activity is great and concerns about information theft are valid. Identity thieves can include spyware in email attachments or modify installation files so they copy the tracking program onto your computer. When theft and deception are involved these programs becomes just as dangerous as viruses and should be taken just as seriously.

Whether ethical or not, the thought of a program secretly recording a person’s activities is unsettling. Lawmakers are responding to privacy concerns and are in discussion about possible legislation.

What can I do?

If you are concerned about spyware, there are a few steps you can take to protect your personal information:

• When you install new programs, especially file sharing applications, do some research and read the licensing agreement.
   
• If spyware is included in the installation, you may want to find out what type of information is sent to the company.
   
• Spyware removal software is also available on the internet. Sites like www.download.com provide listings.
  
  • Extra caution should be taken when using these programs.
  • If you’re not careful, you may inadvertently disable a program by removing certain required components.
  • Damage can be done to the computer unless you pay close attention to what is being deleted. But don’t let that scare you too much.
  • When used appropriately, anti-spyware software can clean up your computer, improve performance, and ensure that marketers are only getting the information you want them to have.