Spyware and adware can be downloaded onto any computer, regardless of whether you're at work or surfing the web at home. Spyware and adware do not work like a typical virus and are one of the biggest security threats to computer users today.
Spyware is a spying device that allows the controller to gather and monitor information about the computer user's surfing habits. It is malicious software that takes partial control of your computer's operation. Spyware is able to get all kinds of information about your computer and send it to the spyware controller without your knowledge or consent!
Spyware exploits infected computers for commercial gain, one symptom of an infected computer is the repeated unsolicited pop-up advertisement. Spyware can also monitor online activities, redirect web browsers to advertising sites and steal personal information - such as financial information. In fact, it is estimated that identity-thieves have stolen over US$ 24 billion worth of account information in the United States alone!
Spyware most often infects a computer by piggybacking on desirable software and the user unknowingly downloads and installs it. It also often lurks in rogue anti-spyware programs that pretend to be security software.
Spyware sometimes hide in shareware programs offered for download, so downloading programs only from reputable sources provides some protection from this source of attack. Upon installing the program, the computer user unknowingly installs the spyware himself.
While computer users view the installation of spyware in their computers as illegal, spyware controllers argue otherwise. Spyware producers claim the installation is done with the consent of the user.
Some internet service providers, especially colleges and universities, block spyware by using their network firewalls and web proxies to block access to web sites known to install spyware.
Fortunately, however, there are many spyware removers and anti spyware programs that are available to download; some even have free trial versions.
With the spyware threat worsening, several anti-spyware programs have emerged that are designed to counteract or remove spyware.
Spyware - The Basics, was written by Julian Cox. Julian owns an IT Support Company in the Southwest of England and maintains the Free Spyware Info website. This particular article is one of a series that can be found at http://www.free-spyware-info.net
