What are spyware?
Spyware are a major threat next to viruses; they are software design to do several different things, but they overall effect is that they compromise your online safety, security and personal privacy. Spyware are normally downloaded to your computer without your agreement (through various free software) and, once there, can perform tasks ranging from hijacking your browser to pornographic websites to registering every search you make. Collected information may be distributed to advertisers.
What are adware?
Like spyware, adware are software that install themselves on your PC, usually without your agreement; then, they bombard you indiscriminately with adverts (pop-ups, banners, highlighted text links). However, do not confuse an adware with a normal ad on a website.
What are malware?
malware are simply any program created to cause problems to you or with the normal use of your computer.
Are there any symptoms that can tell me if I am infected or not?
Habitually, malware are designed to be discreet; it is still possible to notice symptoms like unwanted pop-ups, hijacking of your browser, slow-downs, etc.
How can they install on my computer "without my agreement?"
Believe it or not, spyware and adware are often permission-based. Most users unconsciously agree to download them by accepting the "end-user license agreement" on installation; vendors correctly assume that hardly anyone actually reads the numerous pages of the agreement.
Nevertheless, by security flaws or by persuading you to install a so-called important software, a lot of malware are installed without your permission; you can easily found them on doubtful places such P2P file sharing (LimeWire, KaZaA, eMule, etc.), pornographic websites, warez websites and so on...
I got infected! How can I fix the problem?
First, I cannot stress enough about the importance of being responsible on the Internet; a computer is by far more complex than a coffee machine and none software can substitute a good behavior. If you do not put the effort, you will get infected each time.
That said, you need to install an anti-spyware. anti-spyware helps you fight an ever-growing number of programs designed to collect personal information from your compromised computer and send it back to advertisers – or worse, keyloggers trying to steal sensitive data such as passwords. Spyware attacks are changing regularly, as new malware is created or adapted to bypass defenses; like with anti-virus, you need to keep your definitions updated.
Okay! So, what anti-spyware can I download?
Various anti-spyware are available; I personally recommend xoftspyse (it provides regular updates on new threats – visit my website for more details), but I must admit that you have a lot of choices.
It is possible to avoid malware?
Sure thing! Spend a bit of time to learn how to use a computer; scans emails, web pages, downloads and your hard drive for nasty stuff; resist the temptation to revise your human anatomy on doubtful sites; think before clicking and you should be in business!
