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Last month I told you that most internet connected computers are infected with various forms of Malware and that there some simple things that can be done to reduce the likelihood of infection: Firewall, Anti Virus and Updates.

Not everyone installing Malware on your computer has criminal intent. Recently it was discovered that Sony BMG had released CDs that used a form of anti-copying technology that installed a rootkit. Rootkits are used to hide files and other things from the user. A rootkit is often used by an intruder to hide the fact that a computer has been compromised. Sony may have been stupid to do this but they were not malicious. However, it soon became apparent that virus writers were creating viruses which exploited flaws in the rootkits.

How can you tell if your computer is infected? Here are some of the signs to look out for:
• Computer is much slower than usual.
• Computer crashes more frequently than usual.
• Popup windows appearing without having a web browser running.
• Web pages take a long time to open.
• Unexpected things happening.

It is, however, quite possible for your computer to be infected and not know about it. Taking it to a large retailer for a check-up is no guarantee either.

Ironically, you may come across web sites which claim to “Remove Spyware Now” or something similar. Be very careful because some of these install Malware and are a trap for the unwary.