Also known as W32/SmithFraud, SmitFraud is a spyware that installs itself onto a user’s computer without the user’s consent. It may infect the user’s computer via a particular codec installer. Some programs also contain the spyware. Once it installs itself, it will typically infect a Windows .dll file with a virus and may also change the computer screen’s background to a BSoD (Blue Screen of Death), the infamous Windows error message informing the user that something went horribly wrong.

Help, I’m infected! What do I do?

If you have found yourself subject to the spyware, or are even suspicious you may have it, there are some available (and free) methods of getting rid of this nasty bug. While most anti-virus software should be able to catch it and remove it, it is possible that there may be a variant of the spyware that your anti-virus isn’t currently able to remove. One method would be to reformat your hard drive, but that would cause loss of all your data, which is quite inconvenient and cumbersome. A more practical method would be to download and run SmitFraudFix. This is a popular tool used to aid in the removal of this specific type of spyware. Do not be tricked into downloading the similarly named “Smitfraud Fix Tool”, which will load a virus quite similar to SmitFraud onto your computer, causing you even more trouble than you may have been having before. It’ kind of ironic, really.

What is Spyware?

Spyware is a form of malware (malicious software) that installs itself on the users computer without their knowledge and collects information and browsing history from the user. The may even change computer preferences, such as changing the default homepage in the user’s web browser. Unlike viruses, spyware does not tend to spread throughout the computer. When looking for a way to take care of spyware problems, be sure to avoid what are known as “rogue” anti-spyware programs. These programs will advertise that they will remove spyware, when in fact they do just the opposite; they install even more spyware. Just to name a few:

• AntiVirus 2009
• ErrorSafe
• MacSweeper
• Spy Wiper
• Spydawn
• SpyShredder
• WinAntiVirusPro 2006
• WorldAntiSpy

Whenever downloading software from the internet, always be sure to take caution and check around to see if the download is at all reputable before opening the file and installing it. You never know what type of surprises they may hold.

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