Spyware and adware are two of the hottest topics in computing. It is claimed that nearly two thirds of all PCs are infected with spyware; and Microsoft recently bought Giant in order to launch its own spyware and adware removal software.
So what are spyware and adware? And, more importantly, how can you remove them from your computer?
Spyware is software that gathers information about how you use your computer and transmits the data to a central server. This information can include which websites you visit, what applications you're using, or information about your computer specification. But, more sinisterly, the software can also transmit the usernames and passwords you've typed in online
The data gathered about you might be used to send adverts to your computer in the form of annoying pop-ups, to send you spam email or, in rare cases, to impersonate you online.
The definition of spyware varies greatly. Some privacy enthusiasts argue that all cookies are spyware, but these small files can make using the web easier (remembering logins, for example). The truly malicious spyware programs are those that install themselves without your permission and send data silently without you knowing.
Put simply, adware is software that displays advertising on your computer. Often spyware and adware are part of the same program. Adware is, in theory, harmless on its own; some programs are free because they show adverts which pay for the developer's time. By clicking 'I agree' when installing these you are often agreeing to see the adverts in return for the free software. But when the software starts silently spying on you, it stops being harmless.
These programs are often installed because your browser or operating system has a security hole which was exploited by a website to install the spyware/adware. Or you might have installed a piece of free, advertising-supported software which has also installed spyware alongside the legitimate advertising.
Before you protect your computer from spyware and adware you need to remove any that may already be on your machine. There are lots of programs which claim to remove spyware and adware, but the most effective are Ad-aware, Spybot Search & Destroy and Spyware Blaster. All three are free.
Once you've installed these, the first thing to do is download the latest updates. These are crucial as they detail the latest spyware and adware programs. You need to update these whenever you use the software, but this is easily done by clicking the 'update' button in each program.
Run each program in turn and they will scan your computer, removing any spyware and adware they find. You can also turn on any immunisation options to protect your computer in the future. Instructions with each program will show you how to carry out these tasks. If you have a problem you can ask for help on our forums.
Many more security tools can be found in our downloads area, in the Internet tools section.
To prevent your computer being infected in future you should follow these steps:
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