Spyware
Spyware is software that displays advertisements, collects personal information about you or changes the configuration of your computer, generally without your consent.
Spyware is often associated with software called adware or software that tracks personal or sensitive information. That does not mean all software which provides ads or tracks your online activities is bad.
Spyware is usually the cause if:
- You see pop-up advertisements even when you're not on the web.
- The page your web browser first opens to (your home page) or your browser search settings have changed without your knowledge.
- It is difficult to change your settings back to the way you originally had them.
- You notice a new toolbar in your browser that you didn't want, and find it difficult to get rid of.
- Your computer takes longer than usual to complete certain tasks.
- You get a sudden increase in computer crashes.
There are a number of ways spyware or other unwanted software can get on your system. A common trick is to covertly install the software during the installation of other software you want such as online games or a music or video file sharing program.
Whenever you are installing something on your computer, make sure you carefully read all disclosures, including the licence agreement and privacy statement. Sometimes the inclusion of unwanted software in a given software installation is documented, but it may appear at the end of a licence agreement or privacy statement.
Zombies
Computers become Zombies when infected by viruses that are then used to form networks of computers to send spam and collect personal information. You are often unaware that your computer has been hijacked for this purpose. Using and maintaining anti-virus software and firewalls prevents infection.
What to do
Spyware is often difficult to remove without specific tools. If you try to uninstall this software like any other program, you might find that the program reappears as soon as you restart your computer. If you're having trouble uninstalling unwanted software, you may need to download a tool to do the job for you.
Several companies offer free and low-cost software that will check your computer for spyware and other unwanted software and help you remove it. Do a Google search for ‘free spyware removal’ which you can then download.
Some internet service providers (ISPs) include anti-spyware software in their service packages. Check with your ISP to see if they can recommend or provide a tool.
Once you have an anti-spyware tool on your computer use it regularly to identify and remove any spyware. Sometimes a particular tool will miss certain types of spyware, so installing a couple of different tools and running them in tandem can be more effective in picking up more problem items.
Keep in mind that removing unwanted software with these tools may mean you will no longer be able to use a free program that came with the spyware.
More information
- Taking care of spyware brochure
- Australian Government internet safety site
- A review of various spyware removal products:
- A free spyware remover
- Another useful free program is spybot search and destroy.
- Frequently asked questions on spyware including zombies