Spyware 'rampant' in UK computers

21 Oct 2005

The UK has one of the highest rates of computers infected with secret programs that can track what people do with their machines, research shows.

Only Thailand and the US had more infected PCs, found a study by security firm Webroot.

It was released to coincide with a meeting in London of MPs and computer experts to discuss what can be done to combat spyware programs.

These hide themselves on hard drives and can gather information about users.

'Endless trouble'

According to anti-spyware firm, Webroot, almost 55% of consumer Windows PCs are infected with so-called adware.

This is a form of spyware that can subject people to pop-up adverts, hijack their homepage and install bookmarks.

The most malicious spyware programs lurk unseen on PCs and steal confidential information such as passwords or login details.

"People were worried about spam but spyware is now the bigger danger," said Dr Nick Palmer MP, who sponsored the meeting at Westminster.

"Previous ways of computer harassment, from viruses to spam, have been countered too slowly causing endless trouble for ordinary computer users.

"This time we need to stay ahead of the curve."

Spyware and adware often travel alongside file-sharing programs or media files that people download from the web.

Some websites also take advantage of bugs in Microsoft's Internet Explorer browser to install spyware on the machines of people that visit.

Free anti-spyware programs such as AdAware and Spybot are used by many people to clean up their PCs.

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