Spyware and Adware are the number one reasons for computer problems. (Viruses run a close second!) They not only cause popups, computer latency, and programs to malfunction, but they may also be stealing your information without you knowing it.
What is Spyware?
Taken directly from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spyware
Spyware is a broad category of malicious software intended to intercept or take partial control of a computer's operation without the user's informed consent. While the term taken literally suggests software that surreptitiously monitors the user, it has come to refer more broadly to software that subverts the computer's operation for the benefit of a third party.
What is Adware?
Adware or advertising-supported software is any software package which automatically plays, displays, or downloads advertising material to a computer after the software is installed on it or while the application is being used.
How to tell if you have Spyware or Adware
The top three free Anti-Spyware software packages are (click the name to download):
SpyBot
(http://www.safer-networking.org/en/download/)
AdAware
(http://www.lavasoftusa.com/software/adaware/)
It is best to download Microsoft Defender (aka Antispyware Beta 2) and at least one of the other two. MS Defender, after installed and configured, will run automatically on your system. SpyBot and AdAware, you must initiate. It is important to run then on a routine basis, say, once a week..and be sure to UPDATE the definitions before running for the most up to date detection. (If you have a broadband connection, your Microsoft Defender should automatically update).
Depending on what the program finds, you have the option to have it deleted. If you aren't sure what it is, that it may have found, you can quarantene it instead of deleting it permenantly.
Note: If your OFFICE COMPUTER finds VNC, choose to IGNORE it! Do not quarantine or delete it. This is used by our IT staff for office systems.
How to prevent Spyware or Adware
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The first thing to do is to install Microsoft Defender and either SpyBot or AdAware. Follow the links above, download, install and configure the programs. |
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Another tip is to READ anything you install and make sure not to just hit "next" when you install programs that you may have gotten off of the net (specifically FREE). Most programs that you may download from the internet, will install other programs as part of the package...programs that you may not want installed on your computer. So remember to check before you click next! |
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Another tip: Avoid clicking on banners or pop up ads! Make sure you have Service Pack 2 installed for Windows XP, which comes with an automatic popup blocker! |
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Make sure that all of your AntiVirus definitions are up to date, as well as your Windows Updates. |
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