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Spyware
is a general term used for software that performs certain
behaviors such as advertising, collecting personal information,
or changing the configuration of your computer, generally
without appropriately obtaining your consent. You might have
spyware or other unwanted software on your computer if:
• You see pop-up advertisements even when you're not on the Web.
• The page your Web browser first opens to (your home page) or
your browser search settings have changed without your
knowledge.
• You notice a new toolbar in your browser that you didn't want,
and find it difficult to get rid of.
• Your computer takes longer than usual to complete certain
tasks.
• You experience a sudden rise in computer crashes.
Spyware is often associated with software that displays
advertisements (called adware) or software that tracks personal
or sensitive information. That does not mean all software which
provides ads or tracks your online activities is bad. For
example, you might sign up for a free music service, but "pay"
for the service by agreeing to receive targeted ads. If you
understand the terms and agree to them, you may have decided
that it is a fair tradeoff. You might also agree to let the
company track your online activities to determine which ads to
show you.
Other kinds of unwanted software will make changes to your
computer that can be annoying and can cause your computer slow
down or crash. These programs have the ability to change your
Web browser's home page or search page, or add additional
components to your browser you don't need or want. These
programs also make it very difficult for you to change your
settings back to the way you originally had them. These types of
unwanted programs are also often called spyware.
The key in all cases is whether or not you (or someone who uses
your computer) understand what the software will do and have
agreed to install the software on your computer.
There are a number of ways spyware or other unwanted software
can get on your system. A common trick is to covertly install
the software during the installation of other software you want
such as a music or video file sharing program. Whenever you are
installing something on your computer, make sure you carefully
read all disclosures, including the license agreement and
privacy statement. Sometimes the inclusion of unwanted software
in a given software installation is documented, but it may
appear at the end of a license agreement or privacy statement. |
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