Spyware is a general term used for software that performs certain behaviors such as advertising, collecting personal information, or changing your computer’s configuration, usually without appropriately obtaining your consent. You might have Spyware or other unwanted software on your computer if:
- You see pop-up advertisements even when you're not on the Web.
- Your home page in your browser has changed without your knowledge.
- You notice new, unwanted toolbars in your browser that you didn't knowingly install.
- Your computer slows down and certain tasks take longer than usual to complete.
There are a number of ways Spyware or other unwanted software can get on your system. A common trick is to secretly install Spyware during the installation of other software such as music file sharing programs. Whenever you install something on your computer from the Internet, make sure you carefully read all disclosures, including the license agreement and privacy statement. Pay careful attention to additional programs that may be bundled into your download. Some programs that may seem harmless such as one that tells the weather forcast may actually contain Spyware.
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