Spyware, Adware, and Malware
Most personal computers today have some form of adware, spyware, or malware installed. These third-party applications run in the background using processing power and bandwidth while generating advertisements, collecting information, and possibly creating security risks.
Definitions
- Adware
Adware is software which displays advertisements while the application is running through pop-up windows or other means. Some adware is valid and is installed only with user consent, or is required for the free use of a program. In these cases it will be listed in the license agreement. However, when adware is installed without consent or collects unauthorized user data it becomes a form of spyware.
- Spyware
Spyware is software that gathers user information from the machine on which it is installed, often transmitting it to an outside user or company. It is usually downloaded and installed along with other applications or media players, often without the user's approval or knowledge.
Some spyware tracks websites visited for advertisers or collects personal information from web forms. Others seek out email address for spam lists or credit card numbers, passwords, and other potentially harmful information.
- Malware
Malware is any software used for illegal purposes, or to harm a user or computer. Viruses, worms, trojan horses, exploits, and the more malicious spyware are all a form of malware.
- Cookies
Cookies are files that add functionality to web sites. They are often necessary to view sites properly, or to keep track of an online shopping cart. Some cookies track sites viewed for advertising companies, or keep track of personal information. Because of this, some people consider them spyware.
Most web browsers include the ability to manage and delete cookies, or restrict the cookies which are installed. More information about this should be available in your browser's help files.
Removal and Prevention
Most spyware and adware is downloaded and installed with desirable freeware and media files. To prevent its installation:
- Avoid disreputable sites. Most users know these sites when they see them.
- Research shareware and freeware before installation. If an application comes bundled with adware or spyware, someone has noticed and said so. A google search for reviews should let you know what you are downloading.
- Always read the license agreement. Some applications require the use of adware or spyware in the license, or let you know how to turn it off.
- Never install on demand inside a web browser. If a site requires the use of a plug-in or media player to be viewed properly, find the correct player or plug-in at the web browser's home page instead.
- Use a removal tool.
There are many spyware and adware removal tools available online. Some are free, some are shareware, and some must be purchased. Caution should be used when selecting a tool, because some forms of spyware misrepresent themselves as removal tools.
These two are known to be reliable:
- Ad-Aware is a popular application which removes spyware and adware from a computer. Ad-Aware Personal edition is available
free to users for non-commercial use.
- Spybot: Search and Destroy is another popular removal tool that is offered to users for free.
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