Fight Against Spyware

What is Spyware?

Spyware is software that enables advertisers to gather information about a computer user’s habits.

You can get spyware on your computer when you visit certain websites. Messages may prompt you to download programs (beware of free programs and trial versions), or software may be downloaded automatically without your knowledge.

The spyware then runs on the computer, tracking your activity and reports it to others, such as advertisers. It can also change the home page of your internet browser, and can call 1-900 phone numbers.

How Do I Stop Spyware?

First, install Spyware detection/removal software, such as Ad-Aware from Lavasoft and have it check your system thoroughly. There is a free version available for download. Make sure to check the settings, so that it does a scan automatically at boot up, and that it will update its definitions automatically.

Then, whenever you download and install a program (or feel something may have been installed without your consent), BEFORE you run that program, reboot your computer and let the detection/removal software do its job.

What About Cookies?

When you visit a website, it can place a small file called a "cookie" on your computer. This enables the site to remember your details, such as login ID, and keep track of your visits.

Cookies pose a threat to your privacy. If you prefer to remain anonymous, use the security settings on your browser to disable cookies, or to ask each time a site wants to place a cookie.

Cookies can also be stolen by viruses.