Spyware is technology that assists in gathering information about you without your knowledge or permission. It can be a harmful tool which has the ability to change your browser or system settings and collect, track, and send unauthorized information about you to a third party (mostly advertisers). Information that can be uncovered through Spyware can include your name, social security number, credit card or bank information, and passwords.
Adware is one form of spyware. Adware appears in the form of an advertising banner, bar, or pop-up window which is displayed on a website you may visit. Often, these harmful ads will try to fool you by indicating that you’ve won a prize or encourage you to take a survey/poll on your screen to get you to “click” and hence, download the spyware. In turn, your personal information is used to target you with “spam” (junk mail) in an attempt to make money. Adware affects the performance of your computer system. Adware pop-ups can contribute to system overload, which slows connection speeds, Web page loading times, and other aspects of computer performance. The justification for adware is that it helps pay expenses for the owner of the website, thereby controlling cost to the user.
Malware (for "malicious software") is a general term that refers to any program or file that is harmful to a computer user. Malware includes computer viruses, worms, Trojan horses, and spyware.
How exactly does spyware get into my computer??
Spyware is usually installed without your knowledge as a “drive-by” download while you are on the Internet or when you click on a deceptive pop-up window. Once installed, then uses your live Internet connection to report statistical data about you and your surfing habits back to its source. Both Spyware and Adware hinder computer performance and should be removed if significant interruptions in service are detected.
This sounds illegal…is it??
Unfortunately, at this time, spyware is not illegal. It is one of the downsides to the rapidly-changing age of technology. However, many users are concerned about their privacy.
How do I know if my computer is infected with Spyware/Adware??
Watch for the following:
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Excessive pop-up ads when surfing the Internet
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Pop-up ads or messages appear even when you are not connected to the Internet
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Slower than normal page loading speeds
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Home page setting for your Internet browser has been changed
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A new toolbar is installed in your browser without your consent
(which may reappear when you connect to the Internet even if you’ve removed it) -
Strange behavior from your computer even when not connected to the Internet
If you experience any of these problems on a regular basis, you may have Spyware and/or Adware installed on your computer. The best way to find out if your computer is infected is to perform a system scan using software programs like Ad-Aware and Spybot. Most users will find these programs easy to use – just follow the steps when you open the program! If you have any difficulty, simply call the HelpDesk (ext. 7000) and you will be instructed on what steps to take in order to perform the scan and remove any harmful spyware.
275 Eastland Rd.