Spyware
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Spyware/Malware (malicious software)
In the IT industry the term "Spyware" reffers to a wide category or malicious software (Malware).Spyware is used to track and record user internet activity. Spyware
Spyware is any software or malware (”malicious software”) used to spy or track your computer activity. While some spyware is legitimately and intentionally installed by parents or employers to monitor Internet activity on a computer, spyware may be installed maliciously. Often spyware may come bundled with downloads of free software or come in the form of a cookie via a website, and this spyware may track your Internet activity or may steal secret account usernames and passwords, credit card numbers, and other personal and financial information.
The purpose of Spyware is to infiltrate or damage a computer system without the direct consent from the owner. Spyware includes spyware or adware programs and can take on more sinister names suck as Trojans, worms, viruses.
How can I tell if my computer is affected by Spyware?
You will most likely notice problems on your computer during your day-to-day internet activities. Provided are such Spyware symptoms to watch out for.
Slow PC Performance:
There only has to be one to two Spyware parasites on your computer to hinder your bandwidth and dramatically slow your PC. Spyware in general works silently and secretly in the background and will be hard for the user to detect. Common symptoms are longer PC reboot times and reduced internet connection speeds.
New Desktop shortcuts or switched homepage:
Spyware may alter your Internet settings and redirect your default homepage. Spyware may add new icons and shortcuts to your PC desktop. To avoid these problems it is advised to download a Spyware scanner or monitor and manually remove all traces of Spyware.
Ad Popups on Your Computer:
Spyware can also inundate your computer with popup ads, also while offline. Spyware can prevent regular internet activity, monitor and record your surfing habits and personal information. It is strongly recommended that malware is removed from your PC IMMEDIATELY. The more traces of malware on your computer, the more popups you will see.See Also
