Spyware Blockers

California governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has proclaimed Wednesday, January 28 2009 California Data Privacy Day. The move is designed to draw attention to California’s Office of Privacy Protection (COPP), the first such state governmental office in the nation, and to raise awareness about adware, spyware and malicious software.

The COPP was created to help consumers deal with the flood of spyware, adware and malicious software making the rounds today. One of the office’s resources is a downloadable informational presentation that provides information about the importance of using firewalls, anti-virus and anti-spyware software, and patching computer operating systems and applications to prevent becoming a target of a malicious attack.

The creation of yet another state bureaucracy doesn’t seem to warrant a second look, but this is an extremely significant event. Why? It is recognition on a state level that computer security and data privacy are worth protecting, and also that they are in danger. What’s more notable is that the State of California, the most populus state in the country, is leading the way.

Malicious software, like spyware and adware, has risen to the level of public policy. The threat that spyware poses is real. The consequences are borne by a growing number of citizens who are turning to their state governments for help.

What’s at stake?

We’re dealing with more than just an annoyance. We’re dealing with identity theft. That property is being misappropriated and misused by people both inside and outside of the US for their own personal gain. In the mean time, innocent victims are left to clean up the mess, which can take months.

Once a thief has your identity, he may also have access to your bank and credit accounts, online accounts you may have with merchants, accounts you may use for work or school. A thief can gain access to your computer and use it without your knowledge or consent to attack other computers, send spam, or attempt to trick your friends and acquaintances into falling victim as well.

Adware, spyware and malware are much, much more than simple nuisances. They need to be discovered and removed before they damage your computer, your identity and your security.

If you’re not using anti-spyware software on your computer, there’s a good chance that your computer is already infected. Everything you do, everything you type into your computer, and every Web site you visit may be tracked. Your most sensitive information may be recorded and used against you. Is that really what you want?

Photo Credit: Ric e Ette