Is Spyware Dangerous?
Spyware programs may install themselves on your computer without your knowledge or consent. While some spyware programs display obvious symptoms, others remain hidden and silently steal your personal information. They may also engage in some other malicious activity. Fortunately, there are ways to detect, remove and prevent dangerous spyware programs.
Other People Are Reading
-
Function
-
Spyware is a general term used to describe programs that perform certain actions. These actions include generating advertisements, collecting personal information and changing the configuration of your computer. How dangerous the spyware program is depends largely on the degree that it performs these actions. For example, some spyware programs collect information regarding your browsing habits for the purpose of launching targeted advertisements, whereas other spyware programs collect your financial information -- such as online banking passwords -- for the purpose of sending the information to a remote hacker.
Symptoms
-
Symptoms of spyware depend largely on the type of spyware installed. In general, spyware programs cause your computer to take longer to perform basic tasks, such as booting up and online browsing. In addition, some spyware programs prevent you from accessing certain programs or services. Finally, if your computer is infected with spyware, you may notice an inordinate amount of pop-up advertisements and banner advertisements.
-
Removal
-
Spyware can be removed by running a full scan with an up-to-date anti-spyware program. Many of these programs can be found online and downloaded for free. Windows Vista and 7 users have access to a free anti-spyware program called Windows Defender. To run Windows Defender, click "Start," then "All Programs." Select "Windows Defender." Then click "Scan" and select "Full Scan" from the drop-down menu. Windows Defender will scan your entire computer, and it will automatically remove any spyware that it finds. This may take anywhere from several minutes to several hours.
Prevention
-
To prevent spyware, install a firewall. Windows Vista and 7 users have access to a free firewall. To turn on the firewall in Windows Vista or 7, click "Start." Now, click "Control Panel" and type "firewall" into the search box. Click "Windows Firewall." Then, in the left pane, click "Turn Windows Firewall On or Off," and click "Turn On Windows Firewall." In addition to installing a firewall, make sure your anti-spyware program is updated. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading programs from websites that you do not trust.
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
