is there a spyware that can be obtained by clicking a link in an email? if so, what could this spyware do?

Question

is there a spyware that can be obtained by clicking a link in an email? if so, what could this spyware possibly do?
is there powerful enough spyware that can only be obtained by clicking a weird link in an email and already can cause a participation in a process of webcam hacking?
or even only in a process of examining my laptop so as to inject more and more spyware?
i'm just worried because lately i've been speculating that somebody has been spying on me on my webcam.

i scanned with my antispyware which is superantispyware and it found nothing.
is there a chance that my antispyware just missed the spyware?
what is the probability that it is strong enough to hide itself from superantispyware, at the same time making itself so susceptible that it can be obtained just by clicking a weird link in an email?

by the way, i have also a real-time antivirus and antispyware protection which is the microsoft security essentials so i should also be able to detect it but what if it's strong enough to hide itself even from microsoft security essentials?

Answer 1

Never click on an unknown link in an email, that is e prime method for spreading malware.

As for what it could be and what it could do, well, that's unknown - potentially anything.

Spyware typically runs in the background and records your logins to online sites such as we mail and banking, so it can transmit to the virus writer your personal information.



Restart the computer in Safe mode, and run Malwarebytes.

http://www.computer-answers.ca/2011/computer-questions/windows-questions/q-i-have-an-antivirus-message-popping-up-on-my-machine-and-it-is-not-letting-me-use-programs-or-download-antivirus-tools/



Some malware can get under the Av software, yes, like a rootkit.

http://www.computer-answers.ca/2011/computer-questions/windows-questions/q-what-is-a-rootkit/



You could also consider installing a firewall like ZoneAlarm or Comodo, which will monitor outgoing as well as incoming traffic.



If you are still worried about your webcam, put a sticky note or a bandage over it when you are not using it.



Tips onkeeping browsing safe and securing your computer http://www.computer-answers.ca/2011/internet-networking/q-is-there-any-internet-security-threat-if-i-only-visit-reputable-sites/

Answer 2

Spyware is not what you are mentioning it to be. Normally it watches your activity in surfing and mouse clicks to send you better advertisements. Was meant as a marketing tool but quickly became insanely invasive and abusive.



If someone is hacking your system then you do not have it configured well for security. Yes you can get spyware, viruses or other malware from clicking any malicious link. It is always best to never click on links, just copy paste when possible and use good security software. MSE is not good security software in my opinion but it is better than nothing.



You need a strong reliable firewall more than anything. That regulates inbound and outbound rules. You do not need to know much to use some of them as they will handle the controls and protection for you.



You could uninstall what you have, restart your computer and download a 30 day trial version of panda security "Global Protection" and let that puppy handle things for you a few days. you may see a huge difference in results with it. If not, no harm no foul. Remove and and get what you really want.



If you try it, do a custom install and uncheck backups, system tools, parental controls etc but keep the antivirus, firewall, id theft protection, etc installed.

Answer 3

Yes its not a new technique to send viruses to victims,All of above (As previous answer said),But SuperAntiSpywarePro (Or free whatever) won't missed it (I thing so),And i suggest you to get a good antivirus with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware free (But i use pro version) :

http://download.cnet.com/Malwarebytes-Anti-Malware/3000-8022_4-10804572.html?part=dl-10804572&subj=dl&tag=button

Hope it helps

Answer 4

WOW, I merely approximately surpassed this up, yet you may desire to nicely known!!! it could replica each keystroke you're making on your keyboard and do each little thing you're able to do. occasion: clean out your economic agency account. NUF stated?

Answer 5

Yeap... All of the above.

Answer 6

keylogers can be infected with email attachment.