Anti-Spyware Protection
Spyware and Adware
Spyware is a data collection source used to silently track your web surfing behavior. This information is then passed to marketing or advertising companies without your knowledge or consent. Adware is a software application in which advertising banners or 'pop ups' are displayed on your computer screen while the program is running.
- Spyware programs are typically bundled with free downloads, freeware or shareware programs you download from the Internet. Spyware is similar to a Trojan Horse because it is installed when the user installs another program. Spyware is also considered a form of 'malware' (malicious software) intended to cause harm to your computer and invade your online privacy.
- In addition to being annoying, popups caused by adware and spyware can slow system performance and use memory and system resources that can lead to system crashes and instability.
- Adware and spyware may also increase the risk of identity theft as the programs may have the ability to monitor keystrokes, scan files on your hard drive, change your default homepage on your browser, and relay information about your web visits for marketing purposes.
- Since most common anti-virus software cannot always scan or remove adware or spyware, special software must run regularly to remove threats and keep malicious programs off your computer.
Your best defense against these threats is to protect your computer with anti-spyware/adware software and run the programs regularly. Several companies offer software to detect and delete adware and spyware programs and can provide more information on the topic:
