A lot of computer threats specialize in performing one task-displaying pop-up ads, collecting user data, changing browser settings and can be easily categorized – they are spyware. On the other hand there are still a large number of other common threats that cripple your PC differently and perform a variety of diverse actions and are consequently harder to label.

Runtime errors are one of them. They are the most common Windows error message and contaminate the majority of computer users.

Their rationale is to serve as a reminder that there are grave problems occurring in your system while a particular program is being “run”. This is most often because of the fact that there is a lot of software present on your computer registry the computer cannot work at best levels since these programs are conflicting with each other resulting in runtime errors.

Another serious computer threat is the Trojan virus. These “Trojan horse” programs take their name from the mythical wooden horse that hauled hidden Greek soldiers into the city of Troy. These nasty computer programs carry hidden functionality, often posing as useful applications yet in actual fact, perform Spyware or Adware functions, and/or allow remote access to your PC.

The Trojan Problem Explained

If you are reading this then there is a really good chance that your PC is already infected with a Trojan virus. Trojan viruses can be installed on your machine simply by visiting a website that is carefully crafted by an attacker. When you visit the website, the attacker will send to your PC, code that is designed to be executed by your machine using existing vulnerabilities in software installed on your machine or by vulnerabilities in the operating system itself.

If your PC becomes contaminated, it can be used by the attacker to send out unwelcome emails to email lists the hacker has targeted. These spam emails can’t be traced back to the attacker because they originate on your machine. This is making your PC slow, and the attacker is using your internet bandwidth for free. If you think your internet usage is extreme then this may a contributing factor.