Spyware is a form of computer software that can be installed on a personal or business computer, unbeknownst to the owner of that computer. The spyware then allows a hacker to take control over the owner’s interaction with the computer. Spyware programs not only collect various types of personal information, such as Internet surfing habits, but can also be used to install additional software, redirect Web browser activity and access websites that will cause even more harmful viruses. Spyware can even change computer settings, resulting in slow connection speeds, different home pages, and corrupted computer programs.

So why is spyware so dangerous for New Jersey businesses that rely on computers?

Many spyware programs are designed specifically to monitor and record your behaviors, tracking the websites you visit online. But spyware not only tracks your activities, it can also track your actions. One of the biggest threats spyware poses is that it can record your information as you type it, copying things like passwords and credit card account numbers and sending that data back to the spyware’s originator. Many business owners invest in physical locks to safeguard their businesses, but forget that thieves are now getting in through the computers!

Can you imagine the damage a cyber thief could do to your New Jersey business if they had access to all your valuable records and data? Worse, imagine what would happen if they were able to steal credit card information from your customers. Your company could be blamed for credit card fraud and identity theft!

A spyware program can also turn your computer into its very own remote server. The spyware embeds itself in your computer and then installs other harmful programs or images that spread to the other computers in your network. Even if just one computer in your business network is infected with spyware, it could potentially crash your entire system! Spyware is also capable of shutting down your computer or permanently erasing or damaging files.

Spyware takes up valuable memory, slows your connection and can redirect your computer to a particular website so a cyber crook can make money by directing traffic to a website that is willing to pay for it. While a slow Internet connection may not seem like a big deal to most New Jersey business owners, you have to remember that is only one of the low-level threat risks that spyware poses to your computer network.

Can you afford to put your business and clients’ personal and financial information at risk? Online identity theft and credit card fraud in an increasingly common occurrence because many people, not just business owners, don’t realize the dangers posed by computer viruses, spyware and a committed cyber thief. Protect your New Jersey business and customers with virus prevention services from your IT services provider!