The Tekblog

Malware, spyware, and other junk software makes it onto your computer for a number of reasons:

• You installed something you really shouldn’t have, from an untrustworthy source. Often these include screen savers, toolbars, or torrents that you didn’t scan for viruses.
• You didn’t pay attention when installing a “reputable” application that bundles “optional” crapware.
• You’ve already managed to get yourself infected, and the malware installs even more malware.
• You aren’t using a quality Anti-Virus or Anti-Spyware application.

A Good Look at Scareware

What is scareware? It is software that once installed on your system will try to trick you into believing that you have a highly infected system with some very high “numbers of infections” found. These programs will constantly bother you to register and purchase the software in order to clean up your computer system.

Here you can see two examples of well known scareware. SpywareStop and AntiSpyware 2009. Do not be surprised if you notice that these two “separate” softwares seem to be extremely alike in looks, style, and operation. They are exactly alike…the same wolf just different sheep skins. This is a common practice to stay ahead of legitimate anti-malware and anti-virus software and not be deleted before hopefully being purchased by unsuspecting computer users.

Watch Out for Insidious Bundled Crapware

One of the biggest problems recently is that the makers of popular, “legitimate”  software keep selling out, and including “optional” crapware that nobody needs or wants. This way they profit off the unsuspecting users that aren’t tech-savvy enough to know any better.

Here you can see the attempt to add the “My.Freeze.com Toolbar” to your browser…definitely not good! Notice that while it does state that the software may be removed later, some people may 1.) Not notice it (lack of attention), 2.) Be in too much of a hurry to install the software to notice, or 3.) Not be familiar or comfortable with removing the software after it is already installed on their system.

The real trick with Digsby (and other software that is set up with the same installation style) is that clicking on “Decline” still allows the installation of Digsby itself to proceed. But can you imagine how things can end up for those people who may think or believe that the only way to get Digsby or similar software installed is to click on “Accept”? It has a really deceptive style!

If you have many programs that attempt to install “value-added” software like this on your system, you will quickly find that the majority (or all) of your operating system’s resources are being used up by malware (i.e. background processes). You are also likely to find that you will have unstable or very sluggish browser response, and are likely to have your personal and computer’s security compromised.

Conclusion

It is easy to see just how quickly a system can start to become a mess. The best approach is to have solid, up-to-date security software and be mindful of what you are downloading and installing. When dealing with “free” software, be sure to read the prompts thoroughly to ensure you aren’t agreeing to install something else you DONT need or want!