Marian@norton.com is my email address for any customer with a question. Very often, I get asked things like: How do I change the email address on my Norton account? The simple answer is to visit our online account system at http://www.mynortonaccount.com/ .
Today's question is: I use Norton Internet Security software to protect my computer but today I found spyware. How did it get there?
Unlike the account email question, this one is a little more complex, I'm afraid. There are many ways for spyware to get on your computer even if you are diligent about using good security software. One common way is to allow something to be installed on your computer that you THINK is good but carries the spyware along with it. These are called Trojan Horses. Perhaps you visited a website and an alert popped up telling you your media player was out of date? Uh oh. If you clicked on that alert, it's possible what you were downloading was spyware. To be sure, always visit the manufacturer's site for any patches or updates.
Another way is if someone on your PC is using peer-to-peer software and has unwittingly allowed access to your computer for others out there. Those people might want to spy on your activities, to steal passwords and account information. Be very careful of peer-to-peer programs (such as Kazaa and Limewire.) Make sure you limit those program's access to the folder(s) with your shared files and nothing else.
Here is an article with more information on ways you can prevent spyware or Trojans from being installed on your computer. And keep those questions coming!
Original posting date: Wednesday, April 23, 2008 | 7:00 PM |