Browser Helper Object

A browser helper object (or BHO) is a component of Internet Explorer designed to add or change the functionality of the program.

Are browser helper objects a form of spyware?

Yes, there are many browser helper object programs out there that are forms of spyware. And as is the case with most spyware, adware or malware programs they are installed on your computer without your consent or knowledge. You can get them by downloading software from the internet or by installing some of the helpful toolbars that are available to you.

Are all browser helper objects bad?

No. There are many legitimate and useful browser helper objects that do add value to your time on the internet. Some examples of good BHO’s include:

Yahoo! Toolbar.
Adobe Acrobat plug-ins.
Google toolbar.

Plus, browser helper objects allow you to play multi-media files or display specific graphic formats. When designed in October 1997, these programs were intended to make your internet experience better, and many of them do just that.

What can a BHO do to my computer?

There are several different things that the spyware type of browser helper objects can do to your computer:

They can redirect search results.
They can monitor the web sites you visit and report that information to a third party.
They can replace banner ads on web sites with other ads.
They can hijack (change) your home page.

Another problem with these browser helper object programs is that they are written quickly, and most times, pretty badly. BHO’s often conflict with other programs already installed on your computer so they cause problems like run time errors, page faults, and are a threat to the stability of your system.

If you have one of these spyware browser helper objects installed on your computer, it is launched every time you open Internet Explorer.

What can I do to protect myself?

One thing you can do is to use an internet browser other than Internet Explorer (such as Firefox). However, Internet Explorer is a very popular and user friendly program so this might not be an option for you.

The other thing you can do is to use an anti-spyware program that offers protection from BHO’s. Webroot Spy Sweeper is our choice for removing browser helper objects from your computer and for providing real time protection against the installation of BHO’s. Spy Sweeper has once again won the Editor’s Choice award from PC Magazine. Click here to remove browser helper objects from your computer.

Updated: 11/22/2005
Copyright @2005 THR Computer Solutions - Browser Helper Object