Technology Services
Spyware
What is Spyware?
Spyware is the term used for any data collection program that secretly gathers information about you while you surf the Internet and relays it to advertisers and other interested parties. Adware usually displays banners or unwanted pop-up windows, but often includes spyware as well.
You can unknowingly install spyware when you install new software, most commonly freeware or shareware (e.g., LimeWire, BearShare, KaZaA, iMesh). Many of these programs are intended to track your Internet browsing habits, such as frequented sites and favorite downloads, then provide advertising companies with marketing data.
How do I remove spyware?
Unfortunately, you cannot fully remove most spyware and adware programs by using the uninstall option in the Windows Add or Remove Programs control panel. To completely remove spyware from your computer, InfoTech recommends using one of these programs: Ad-Aware or Spybot - Search & Destroy
How do I avoid spyware?
Ad-Aware and Spybot - Search & Destroy have identified the following as applications that may contain adware or spyware:
- Applejuice
- Ares P2P
- Audiogalaxy
- CometCursor
- eDonkey2000
- Gnucleus
- Gnutella
- Go!Zilla
- Grokster
- iMesh
- KaZaA and KaZaA Lite
- KMD
- LimeWire
- Morpheus
- NeoModus (DirectConnect)
- Overnet
- Rapigator
- Shareaza
- SwapNut
- Warez P2P
- WinMX
These additional steps also help avoid spyware and adware:
- Reduce your use of cookies
- Avoid advertisements
- Avoid clicking links in instant messaging (IM) software
- Frequently scan your computer with spyware detection software
Graphic and some information supplied courtesy of Baylor University and the Indiana University UITS Knowledge Base.