revised 11/28/05
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Malware is the umbrella term for malicious software. This is software you don't want on your computer that is designed to serve someone else's interests. Click on each of the following headings to expand the text; click again to collapse that section.
Viruses infect a computer, either to damage that machine (delete files, etc) or to use that machine to distribute junk email, porn, ads, other viruses. Viruses are programs that are written by troublemakers. Some virus writers are skilled programmers; some are "script-kiddies" assembling pieces. Their motivations vary.
Though most people use the term virus broadly, there are specific variations:
The most likely mechanism for getting a virus is as an attachment to email. Ten years ago, the most likely mechanism was an infected diskette.
Spyware and adware are software that monitor your activities and/or deliver ads to your screen. Although this is often within your browser, it can be independent of the browser -- for example, keystroke loggers.
Spyware records some activity or information and sends it to someone. This includes the sites you browse, but can also include any computer activity.
Who does this? Criminals, the government, your employer. Criminals want to steal valuable info like SSN, account numbers and passwords. Government and employers want to make sure you behave; employers want to avoid liability for your misbehavior.
Dupeware describes what some people also call "social engineering," "phishing," hustling, grifting or scamming. In this case, someone gets you to give them what they want through some enticement. This includes the many Nigerian scams, but also includes email that seems to come from a reputable source, asking you to confirm certain info in email or in a form online. Never send special info in email; never follow a link from email if it involves special info.
Hoaxes are also called Urban Legends. They involve email that alarms or incites and suggests you forward that email to everyone you know. NEVER forward such email. Delete it or research it online.
Learn how to use these programs; make sure they are properly configured; keep them updated -- daily.
Thank you for your participation. Comments, suggestions and questions are welcome.
Mark Justice Hinton (my bio)
mjhinton.com/malware/ (this presentation)
mjhinton.com/unm/ (class info and schedule)
mark@mjhinton.com
Viruses and Spyware: Protect Your PC [58016]
Section FFA
Tuesday, 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM; 1 session
November 29, 2005
Cost $85
Intermediate Windows [51102]
Section FCB
Thursday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM; 1 session
November 10, 2005
Cost $155
Other UNMCE Classes
Internet and Web Design
Windows Operating System
Macintosh
Free Antivirus: Finally Ready for Prime Time by Scott Spanbauer
Spy Stoppers By Cade Metz
Viral Scourge 101 (history)
Viruses & Worms (list)
Copyright © 2005 by mjh.
revised
11/28/05
View My Stats