Spyware does not concern itself with etiquette of asking for your permission. It simply just invades with much evil intent with no respect for your privacy, and the Internet is its pathway to your computer.



A favorite trick is to install spyware when you are installing another program. Generally spyware comes from free programs offered on the Internet. These free programs are called freeware, or shareware. Technically, the spyware company has your permission, although the legal issues are not clear.

When a freeware or shareware program is installed, you are asked to agree to the terms of service or licensing agreement, which will contain information about the spyware being installed. Most people dont real the legal agreement and just select I Agree and install the program.

Normally spyware main agenda is to report your PC activity to a third party and/or pop up advertisements on your PC. I am certain you have had the experience of random bombardment of annoying pop ups! This is how the creators of spyware software make their money. Then there are a lot of spyware applications that simply collect useful data for advertising companies to learn more about your Internet behavior.

Spyware can also gather email addresses in your address book, as well as passwords and other information off your computer and transmit it without your knowledge.

Do I Have Spyware?

Here are a few tips that may point to a spyware problem:

1)Constant random pop ups

2)Toolbars and/or icons appear on your browser or desktop out of nowhere

3)Both your computer and Internet connection moves drastically slower

4)Your browser goes to advertising sites unexpectedly

5)Settings have changed on your PC even when your kids are not home

6)Wherever your eyes look on your monitor, there is an advertisement

If any of these symptoms are visible, do something!

Do what?

1)Get a reputable firewall program for your PC. If you have a Windows computer that was built within the last five years, then there is already a firewall built-in. Just make sure it is not disabled. Also virus protection software have firewalls integrated into the application.

2)The more you click, the more you receive. If you click on pop ups, you are basically saying I am real person that find your spyware application very useful.

3)Stop downloading free porn, games and videos. If its free, its probably a trick! If you must considering downloading freeware, read the license agreements.

4)Keep your Windows and Browser up to date. Microsoft offers free security updates. Make sure that you update regularly.

5)Use a quality anti-spyware program.

Beware of antispyware software that actually installs spyware on your computer, so research is a must before you spend your money on any antispyware solution.

Good antispyware provide you with a scheduling feature that enables you to automate the spyware scanning of your computer.