Computers For Starters What Is Spyware Description

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What Is Descriptions

What is spyware?

Despite its name, the term "spyware" doesn't refer to something used by undercover operatives, but rather by the advertising industry. In fact, spyware is also known as "adware." It refers to a category of software that, when installed on your computer, may send you pop-up ads, redirect your browser to certain web sites, or monitor the web sites that you visit. Some extreme, invasive versions of spyware may track exactly what keys you type.

Because of the extra processing, spyware may cause your computer to become slow or sluggish. There are also privacy implications:

* What information is being gathered?

* Who is receiving that information?

* How is that information being used?

How do you know if there is spyware on your computer?

The following symptoms may indicate that spyware is installed on your computer:

* You are subject to endless pop-up windows .

* You are redirected to web sites other than the one you typed into your browser.

* New, unexpected toolbars appear in your web browser .

* New, unexpected icons appear in the system tray at the bottom of your screen .

* Your browser's home page suddenly changed .

* The search engine your browser opens when you click "search" has been changed .

* Random Windows error messages begin to appear .

* Your computer suddenly seems very slow when opening programs or processing tasks (saving files, etc.)

How can you prevent spyware from installing on your computer?

To avoid unintentionally installing it yourself, follow these good security practices:

* Don't click on links within pop-up windows - Because pop-up windows are often a product of spyware, clicking on the window may install spyware software on your computer. To close the pop-up window, click on the "X" in the top right hand corner of the title bar instead of a "close" link within the window.

* Choose "NO" when asked unexpected questions - Be wary of unexpected dialog boxes asking whether you want to run a particular program or perform another type of task. Always select "NO" or "CANCEL," or close the dialog box by clicking the "X" icon in the title bar.

* Be wary of free downloadable software - There are many sites that offer customized toolbars or other features that appeal to users. Do not download programs from sites you do not trust or sites that you were linked to via e-mail or another web site, and realize that you may be exposing your computer to spyware by downloading some of these programs. When in doubt - Don't do it!

* Don't follow email links claiming to offer anti-spyware software - Like email viruses, the links may serve the opposite purpose and actually install the spyware it claims to be eliminating.

How do you remove spyware?

* Run a full scan on your computer with your anti-virus software - Some anti-virus software will find and remove spyware, but it may not find the spyware when it is monitoring your computer in real time. Set your anti-virus software to prompt you to run a full scan periodically. Weekly scans seem to well for most user's.

* Run a legitimate product specifically designed to remove spyware - Many vendors offer products that will scan your computer for spyware and remove any spyware software. Be on the lookout when purchasing a spyware removal software that the manufacture does NOT Delist! Delisting is when a software maker removes spyware from there detection list for one reason or another, we at CFS believe once spyware always spyware.

As always, you can just call us and we can assist you with the specific details of your problem. Before trying to repair something that you are not 100% sure of, please consult a professional before accidentally making matters worst.

Safe Surfing

Computers For Starters

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