Spyware is a term used for advertising software that is up-loaded and run on a personal computer without the knowledge and consent of the owner. There are some advertising software installed with the consent of the computer owner as a form of payment for the use of a website or program. This type of software is called adware. The difference between spyware and adware is knowledge and consent. Adware always informs the owner and asks permission for the program to be run on the computer. Spyware slips through your security and just goes ahead with what it was programmed to do.
Because spyware is a hostile, invasive program, those who create them do not bother about systemic compatibility which leads to damages in the computer systme. This is the main reason why spyware is a popular subject with computer users.
The first step in spyware removal is of course determining that you indeed have spyware installed on your computer. Chances are, you do. In a study conducted by America Online and the National Cyber-Security Alliance in 2004, it was estimated that 80% of computer users across the world have some form of spyware installed on their computer, and 90% of these users are not aware of it.
Some common signs that your computer maybe infected with spyware are ‘pop-up’ advertisements that occur frequently, and sometimes even when you are not on the web. These ads can be extremely annoying to be sure, but spyware can have even more sinister effects to your computer. For instance, it can considerably slow your computer down, add hard to remove toolbars to your browser, change your home page without your knowledge, and cause lock-ups or crashes, resulting in lost data.
The good news is there are a number of spyware removal programs available that will scan your computer to detect spyware elements. If it is determined that your computer is infected with spyware, some of these programs are able to remove the infection.
Many spyware removal programs are available free of charge, though they must be updated regularly. Some programs will allow you to scan your computer for free, but will then ask for payment in order to clean the detected spyware. Personally, I’m a little skeptical of these programs, and stick to the ones that are entirely free of cost. Some good examples include SpyBot, and AdAware.
These spyware removal programs are usually able to get most spyware off your computer. To increase your chances, it is best to run two or even three different programs. You may encounter occasional spyware programs that are especially malicious and will require more complicated measures to remove. Instructions on how to remove these more devious spyware programs are often available in technical forums across the internet, and most stores that offer computer repair are also able to clean spyware as well as viruses.
Just remember, it's your computer that could get damaged here. Lord knows what important files can get lost if your computer stops running. When it comes to protecting your computer, don't be a miser. |