Spyware is a growing problem on the desktops of American Standard users. If your Internet browser mysteriously acquired a new toolbar, you have new programs showing up unexpectedly, or your computer is acting sluggish, then chances are that you have caught some kind of spyware.
The ASBS Support Center has recorded numerous events where users have been prevented from viewing important internet pages such as completing the benefits enrollment process, as well as using important Citrix applications. Take the necessary steps to protect yourself and the network from this threat so that you can continue to work trouble-free.
What Is Spyware? Spyware belongs to a group of software known as malware, or pestware. It sends information to another destination on the Internet from a computer without the user's explicit consent and knowledge. This information can be anything accessible by, or stored on, your computer. Most spyware sends information such as cookies, URLs you visit on the Internet, and IP and e-mail addresses to unknown recipients. Other types will download specific advertising content constantly to your browser, and/or hijack your homepage.
Where Did It Come From? Most spyware comes bundled with peer-to-peer file-sharing programs, such as iMesh, BearShare, and Kazaa. Some forms of spyware are contracted simply by surfing the Internet, occurring because your browser security settings are too low.
Action Plan: Here are some steps that you can take to make sure that you keep your computing environment spyware-free.
1. Restrict your Internet activities to business related sites on company owned PCs. Most business related sites will not infect your system with AdWare or Spyware.
2.Never load constant- connected web applications. The only reason we are able to get by with the current Internet connection bandwidth restriction is that the usage is intermittent. If everyone is constantly moving non-business related data through our Internet connection it steals bandwidth from those that need it for the business. These programs are not allowed on American Standard company PCs and serve no business purpose.
3. Clean Up Your Systems: The only sure way to know whether there is spyware on company machines (and there likely is) is to run an anti-spyware utility. If you feel you have spyware on your PC we are suggesting that you talk to your local IT representative or the ASBSSupportCenter as they should have the company approved software to be able to remove this.
4. Check Browser Settings: By having browser security set at medium or higher, there is less chance that you will pick up a "drive-by download" of spyware. You can still be prompted to install software that may appear to be safe, but the best rule of thumb is to not accept downloads from sites you don't know and trust completely. Your PC should already be set to the company suggested settings that should have your browser set at a high security level.
5. Pay Closer Attention: There is no way to know for sure whether a program contains spyware. Before you download anything unfamiliar, take the time to visit the maker's Web site, read reviews, search for experiences from other users, and more closely examine the installer and licensing agreement. Remember, company policy prevents you from loading applications that are not business related.
Bottom Line:Spyware is most likely on your machines, whether you believe it or not. Take the necessary steps to protect yourself from spyware, not to mention your computers' resources and Internet bandwidth.
Current list known Spyware programs (this is definitely not all of them, but maybe the ones that are more recognizable):
WeatherBug
HotBar
Google Tool Bar/Pop-Up Blocker
MySearchBar
Comet Cursor
Cursor Icons
2020 Search
Web Rebates