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What you need to know - Spyware
Spyware - the undercover secret agent of the email scammer
What is spyware?
As you may guess, spyware is anything but honest. Installed on your computer without your knowledge, it spies on your PC, collecting personal information or changing the configuration of your computer.
How can I tell if spyware has got onto my computer?
There are a number of tell-tale signs:
- You see pop-up adverts even when you're not browsing the web
- Your browser's start page or search settings change without warning
- A new toolbar appears in your browser that you didn't expect or want
- Your computer starts to run more slowly or crash more often
How does spyware get onto my computer?
It is often installed along with other software you actually want to download. 'Free' software like browser toolbars, weather programs and screensavers sometimes install spyware onto your computer. In the 'small print' of the license agreement that you see during installation, it will tell you that the extra software is going to be installed, but many people don't realise the implications.
How does it affect my security?
At best, the software can be fairly harmless - it might collect information about your browsing habits and display advertising targeted to your interests. Even so, it does feel like an invasion of privacy and it may well slow down your computer.
At worst, spyware can be malicious, it may scan your hard disk to try and capture your personal infromation, such as banking details and passwords, and transmit them to criminals. It may also try to shut down your anti-virus or anti-spyware programs.
What can I do to avoid spyware?
To help keep your system free of these threats, follow our tips on avoiding spyware
