Spyware is the most troublesome
software to appear on the Internet in recent times. When spyware infects a
computer system, it may be relatively harmless or it may be devastating.
Spyware like coolwebsearch and
new.net are capable of
paralyzing a computer system. Laws
to regulate spyware are pending in many states and may take years to enforce.
What Is Spyware?
Spyware is any software that
collects information about
computer usage and/or the computer
user. It is installed on one computer and sends information to another
computer.
Some spywares like the Weather Bug,
Bear Share and Kazaa are knowingly downloaded and installed by users. Other spyware
is installed without the knowledge or permission of the user.
How Does Spyware Affect A Computer?
Symptoms of spyware infection
includes:
* Very slow system performance
while browsing the Internet.
* Your homepage changing
mysteriously on its own.
* Excessive appearance of pop-ups,
on sites likes Google,
Yahoo and MSN, which don't use
them.
* You can only get your browser to
visit sites, which are
trying to dupe you into buying spy
ware removal software.
Many spyware detection and
elimination programs are easily available for free on the Internet.
How Does One Deal With Spyware?
There are many tools and catalogues
available to deal with spyware. One of these tools is Spybot Search and
Destroy.
It scans computers for spyware and
harmful programs. It shows a list of problem areas to the user and allows him
to delete any or all of them.
A user can leave legitimate
programs installed by him.
These may include peer-to-peer file
sharing software or
software installed to monitor the
on-line activities of
children.
A Comprehensive Solution
It may be a good idea for most
computer owners to get a
comprehensive PC security solution
as a bundle. Norton and McAfee, now offer a complete security suite consisting
of anti-virus, personal firewall, anti-spam and privacy offerings, and anti-spy
ware.
They are quite easy to install and
allow parents to monitor children who use the computer. There are many threats
on the Internet, from which these suites can protect your computer.
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