CyberAngels

What is Spyware/Adware?

Spyware is a type of program that gathers personal information from your computer and relays it back to another computer, generally for advertising purposes. These programs can also change your computer's configuration, force open ads or redirect your browser.

Often, when you download freeware and shareware programs (such as Kazaa or Wild Tangent), you unknowingly trigger adware by accepting an End User License Agreement.

Why is spyware dangerous?

Adware and spyware not only pose privacy and security threats, these programs substantially slow down your computer because of the enormous amount of resources required to process and transmit data (and open all of those pop-up windows!). Oftentimes, your computer is not able to process legitimate programs because of the toll these programs are taking on your computer. Aside from your computer crashing, these types of programs may leave security holes that make your computer susceptible to exploitation by hackers.

How do you know if there is spyware on your computer?

Your computer may exhibit some or many of these symptoms:

• Endless pop-up windows
• Your home page has changed
• Strange toolbars on your browser
• Unfamiliar icons in your taskbar
• Your computer is sluggish, and has a hard time opening programs or saving files

• Be wary of free downloads
• Always read the End User License Agreement before installing new programs
• Don't click on links within pop-up windows (click the "X" icon in the titlebar to close)
• Adjust your browser preferences to limit cookies and pop-up windows
• Install an Anti-Spyware Program

• Your computer receives a large amount of pop-up windows, even when you are not browsing the Internet. You may also receive a lot of unexpected or unusual errors.
• When you browse the internet, you are unable to choose webpages, unable to use certain keys or mouse buttons, or are redirected to different pages.
• You see new toolbars in your Internet browser, or unfamiliar icons in your task tray or on your desktop.
• The homepage of your browser or your search function have been changed.
• Your computer or Internet connection seems much slower than usual.

• Avoid downloading free programs or applications from unfamiliar websites. Download only from trusted sources.
• Avoid downloading anything from an e-mail link unless you are certain it is trustworthy; some spammers advertise anti-spyware programs that will in fact install more spyware on your computer.
• Never click any links in pop-up windows. Always use the X icon in the title bar rather than clicking "Close" in the window. These pop-ups may indicate spyware.
• Ask your network administrator for help in securing your browser. Many newer browsers offer a pop-up blocking option that will help eliminate the inconvenience and potential threat of advertisement windows.
• Use a firewall. These programs will alert you when suspicious software is being installed on your computer, and may help prevent spyware.
• If you download software, scan it with a current and trusted virus-checker; some newer virus scans include spyware and will alert you if there may be a threat.