Spyware Information
Spyware is a type of program that watches what users do with their computer and then sends that information over the internet. Spyware can collect many different types of information about a user. More benign programs can attempt to track what types of websites a user visits and send this information to an advertisement agency. More malicious versions can try to record what a user types to try to intercept passwords or credit card numbers. Yet other versions simply launch popup advertisements. While some forms of spyware can certainly be considered malicious, some on the other hand certainly are not, and are more passive in nature by just watching, observing, and collecting information.
Vicnet recommends installing these 2 products below to eliminate spyware on your computer.
Ad-Aware 2007
If your computer has slowed down quite a bit, crashes a lot more than it used to,
and seems to put out a constant stream of pop-ups and ads, chances are good that your computer is
infected with "adware." Adware is a term for files and programs that get put on your computer without
your knowledge or consent, in order to display ads to you. Adware not only slows down your system,
it can sometimes create a security risk.
Download Ad-Aware 2007
Installing Ad-Aware
Updating Ad-Aware
Scanning for spyware
SpyBot - Search and Destroy
Removes spyware, a relatively new kind of threat not yet covered
by common anti-virus applications. Spyware silently tracks your surfing behaviour to create a marketing profile
for you that is transmitted without your knowledge to the compilers and sold to advertising companies.
Download Spybot 1.5.2
Installing Spybot
Running Spybot
Updating Spybot
Scanning for spyware
