An Introduction to Internet Trojan's

Trojan's are computer programs that can be maliciously used to get into someone's computer. This article offers advice on spotting, preventing and getting rid of Trojan's.

What is a Trojan?

A Trojan is an unwanted programme that can be unwittingly installed onto a computer. It is usually a malicious programme that criminals use to gain control of and access to someone else's computer. These criminals may offer someone some software of use, but when they download the software they also download a Trojan, causing them many problems. Once installed the Trojan's inventor may be able to take control of the computer or see everything that is being done on the computer by the owner.

Once someone can view what someone else is doing on their computer they can cause havoc. They will be able to see everything on the computer including secure data such as passwords and bank account details. They can then use this for their own malicious intentions. They will also be able to see any passwords that the computer's owner enters onto their computer. So any secure websites they access, the Trojan's inventor will also be able to access them. When this includes something such as a bank account the problems it can cause are obvious.

As well as gaining access to secure or personal information, those who fool others to install a Trojan are able to upload other unwanted programs onto the computer. They can gain control so can do what they like to it. The main reason criminals use Trojan's, though, is to gain access to secure information that they can make a financial gain from.

How To Spot a Trojan

It is not always easy to spot a Trojan. If programs or documents appear to have been deleted from or installed onto your computer without your knowledge (and nobody else has been using it) then you may well have a Trojan. If you think your might have a Trojan, you can check in the programs section from the control panel (in windows). To do this select Control Panel, which can be found from the Start menu (windows icon, usually at the bottom right of the desktop). From here select Programs and then Programs and Features. This will bring up a list of programs that are installed on the computer.

How to Prevent a Trojan

Although not always easy, there are steps that can be taken to minimise the chances of a Trojan being installed onto your computer. Staying away from unofficial (especially if illegal) versions of a piece of software is a good idea. These are often offered cheap (or free) for a reason; to fool people into installing a Trojan while installing the software.

Another prevention method is to install a Trojan Scanner, which is different to regular anti-virus software. But be aware; some programs sold as Trojan Scanner's are in fact doing the opposite and installing a Trojan.

You should always be careful when installing anything onto your computer. If in doubt, don't install it - only install programs from a source you know you can trust. This includes games. Also avoid clicking on links in emails unless you know who they have come from and that it can be trusted.

How To Get Rid of Trojan's

If you have anti-virus/anti-Trojan software that picks up a Trojan, use the software to delete it immediately. You can also delete any program, including Trojan's, in the Control Panel. Once you get to the Control Panel, choose Uninstall A Program, under Programs. A list of programs will then appear. Choose the appropriate program and click Uninstall, which can be found above the programs menu.