Spyware and adware
In this chapter you will find out how to detect and remove spyware and adware applications, what operating systems and software are most vulnerable and how to protect your computer using free antispyware solutions.
Computer spyware
Computer spyware is a malicious software designed to be installed and runned on a computer without explicit permissions of its owner. Most malicious applications are totally invisible; some act as harmless service while performing background task of spying. Spyware is designed to detect sensitive information, such as websites that you visit or even passwords or bank data. Collected information is encoded and periodically sent to the attacker.
Adware is a type of malicious software that displays advertisements. Ads pop up on user's display screen, often imitating operating system messages forcing user to click on them and to install other malicious applications.
MS Windows operating system is known to be extremely vulnerable to malicious software due to large amount of security flaws in OS and integrated web browser.
Spyware removal
Spyware and adware is usually removed using anti spyware software; each file on the computer must be scanned to ensure full disinfection.
Be careful downloading random anti spyware scanners from the internet. There are many fake antispyware applications that claim to remove malicious software but after user installs them he/she finds out that removal is not available. Many decide to pay a small requested fee to simply get rid of unwanted antispyware application that keeps popping annoying messages.
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Linas from Smooth Step
Date: 11/23/2008 4:47:00 PM
I would recommend two different scanners:
Superantispyware - Offers a free powerful spyware remover that eliminates most of today's spyware.
Webroot SpySweeper - Offers a free spyware scanner for home users.
Alberto from Portugal
Date: 11/14/2008 10:58:00 PM
Hi, My name is Alberto, I need free antispyware for my pc for home use. Can u send me link to download antispyware.
Thank you.