Facts About Spyware
Whenever you surf the Internet, your computer is vulnerable to malicious software called spyware. It doesn't ask for permission before installing on the computer. Spyware observes the activities of your computer and might even try to control it.
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Signs
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A number of signs point toward a spyware invasion, such as unexpected pop-ups, changed homepage, unresponsive keys, unwanted toolbars and random errors.
Identity Theft
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Some spyware programs can gain access to personal and financial records on your computer, which can lead to identity theft.
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Anti-spyware
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Not even the finest spyware programs can detect more than 90 percent of spyware programs. Formatting the hard drive and reinstalling everything is sometimes the only option, but that can't protect against future infections.
Prevention
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Steps you can take to protect your computer from spyware include using updated anti-virus and anti-spyware programs; installing a firewall; avoiding downloading unfamiliar programs or clicking on pop-ups; and backing up everything.
Statistics
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According to a 2006 audit by Webroot Software, there are about 30 spyware programs running on an average home computer.
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