Types of Adware: AdDestroyer
There are many signs that give off the indication of adware. The first sign is typically the random and frequent displaying of pop-up advertisements. This may occur when you load your browser, surf the web or even when the browser is disabled. Other indications include alterations in your browser such as new buttons, toolbars and redirection of web requests. Adware has also been known to slow down computer performance as too many of these programs will consume loads of system memory. When these observations are made, it's time to find a solution and eradicate the problem.
The evolving threat of malware has led to the development of numerous products intended to serve as a solution. Many web sites will enable you to run a free scan of your system to search for adware, spyware and other common infections. While some of these services are legitimate and rather useful, many of them are simply preying on the public's fears, looking to install even more malicious software on your system. One application guilty of this is a program called AdDestroyer.
The Trick
AdDestroyer was created by Spyware Labs, a relatively unknown internet security company. The program baits users by claiming to be an anti-spyware utility. However, this software is more likely to infect your system with spyware rather than remove it. AdDestroyer settles into the registry of your computer, creating registry keys that enable it to be run whenever the machine is started. After performing the useless scan, it informs you that your system is at risk, encouraging you to upgrade to a premium edition of AdDestroyer.
Furthermore, AdDestroyer makes secret connections to the internet without your awareness or consent. Like most forms of unknowing adware, it displays frequent pop-ups and also makes adjustment to the Internet Explorer web browser. AdDestroyer has also been known to collect personal data and transmit it to third-party sources. Since the program does not include an uninstall function, manually removing it is quite difficult.
Prevention
Although AdDestroyer has become a more prevalent threat, you can avoid this adware and other infections by following these simple rules.
# 1: Make sure your Windows security is up to date - Microsoft provides their customers with weekly updates that can be configured for an automatic download directly from their website.
# 2: Install a reliable anti-spyware application - A quality spyware solution capable of detecting AdDestroyer and other types of adware just may be the answer to all of your problems. Some of them are even able to reverse the damage of your system and instantly detect the infection.
# 3: Install a firewall application - A firewall is essential to any computer running the Windows operating system. Without one, your security is incomplete. Make sure the program is always turned "ON" to keep intrusive adware applications out of your system.
# 4: Keep your spyware definitions updated - A new variation of the AdDestroyer program may be created everyday. If your anti-spyware isn't updated, it will have no way to detect them, leaving you exposed to various threats. A quality anti-spyware scanner will come with an update feature that allows you to instantly receive new definitions. For the best results, this feature should be configured to receive automatic updates, ensuring that you're always protected.
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