How to Find Spyware
Spyware is a malicious type of computer software that has the capability to steal your private information. It can typically be installed on your computer without your knowledge while you are installing another program or downloading a file. Spyware can also install itself on your computer by a variety of methods. The software itself does not usually damage your computer, but can secretly record your keystrokes, giving the creator of the program access to passwords, e-mails, bank account numbers and more. Finding and locating spyware is an easy process and simply requires an anti-spyware program, which you can obtain for free.
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Instructions
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Search for and download an anti-spyware application to be installed on your computer. Whether or not you believe you have spyware, these programs can be valuable tools. Spybot: S&D and Adaware are two examples of free programs you can use after following their download links in the Resources section below.
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Install the program of your choice. This may take some time, and you may need to restart your computer after the installation is complete. To be safe, save and close any of your work and/or open applications.
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Make sure your anti-spyware program is completely updated. Most applications have an option to manually check for updates, so before scanning your computer, make sure the program you are using is as up-to-date as possible. The update option can usually be found on the program's main control page.
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Close all open programs except for your anti-spyware application, then perform a complete system scan. Your program will scan your entire computer and all the files on your hard drive for any traces of spyware applications. When the scan is complete, it will inform you of its findings.
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Delete any traces of spyware your scan finds. You can typically remove spyware using the program itself. Restart your computer when you are finished. To make certain all spyware is gone from your computer, perform another scan.
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