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 | Spyware
infects 9 out of 10 Internet connected PCs and has eclipsed viruses
as the #1 threat to online privacy.
| The consequences of unidentified spyware can include identity theft,
computer corruption and bombardment from pop-up ads.
| Spyware can easily bypass anti-virus and firewall protection by piggybacking
on legitimate downloads to stealthily install on your system without
your knowledge.
| Spyware programs are deeply rooted applications that intertwine with core
system functions to make manual removal without system disruption nearly
impossible for most PC users. | |
Spyware programs are deeply-rooted applications that embed themselves into your system with the intent of tracking your online activity, stealing your personal information, or exposing you to increased advertising. Categories of spyware include Trojans, system monitors, adware and dialers.
Spyware is most frequently installed as the result of a "drive-by" download, through which the spyware piggybacks on a seemingly harmless application intended for sharing music or pictures, or offering other "fun" and usually free utilities like customizable cursors or e-wallets. By unscrupulously burying consent deep in a license agreement, many spyware programs are "legally" installed.
Because spyware is not viral, and generally installs only with consent, anti-virus software does not offer adequate protection. By attaching itself to legitimate downloads, spyware easily bypasses firewall protection. And by inter-twining itself with files essential to system operation, spyware cannot be safely removed by a system-cleaning tool like Window Washer.
In their most benign form, spyware programs can significantly slow your system and result in a bombardment of pop-up ads. At their most malicious, spyware can lead to Identity theft and data corruption.
Recommended reading
We recommending installing Webroot's SpySweeper which will scan your PC and remove any Spyware you have installed on your PC.
List of worst offenders:
1) Kazaa
2) DivX software
If you have installed software which has caused you problems, leave your comments on the message board and we will add it here.