Have you ever clicked on a curious link or advertisement while browsing the Internet, and several pop-up windows flooded your screen? Or has your browser ever unexpectedly directed you to a series of unwanted websites? Or have you ever installed a free download and noticed that your computer is suddenly very slow because, without you realizing it, a program has started tracking your online movements?
Welcome to the mysterious universe of spyware and adware. These programs are not just annoying. They also pose a security risk to ordinary Internet users like you.
Spyware and adware
Spyware typically enters your computer without your knowledge or permission. It runs in the background, collecting information or monitoring your activities. Many spyware collect information about your computer and how it is used. It can monitor, for example, your Internet browsing habits. However, more sophisticated forms of spyware are known to capture and transmit highly personal information to identity thieves, from passwords and usernames used on websites to credit card numbers or copies of your instant messages.
Adware is a little different from spyware. Its main intention is to display advertising content on your computer. Often through pop-up windows, adware programs show advertisements and links from other websites. Many of these ads imitate legitimate products. Some types of adware monitor browsing activities and then use this information to send more targeted advertising content. Some people don’t mind, while others consider this practice an invasion of privacy.
The most important question is: do you want this program on your computer? If this software truly compromises privacy and security (or at the very least becomes a nuisance), it undoubtedly falls into the category of unwanted software. This means that it is necessary to learn how to deal with this problem.
How to remove spyware and adware
By posing security risks or performance issues, some types of spyware clearly represent more than a simple nuisance. For example, some types of spyware and adware, which work in the background, can take over computer resources and sometimes even disable the entire system. While a slow computer is a problem for any user, it is extremely difficult for those who work remotely from their home network.
These programs are almost always installed alongside other programs you have loaded. Some kind of notification is probably displayed with the software licensing agreement. However, as some contracts are almost always very long, we end up not reading them completely. Typically, spyware or adware is bundled with freeware downloaded from the Internet. Some people might even think this is fair: you get the free software, the developer gets the right to observe your habits. Others consider this practice deceptive and invasive.
Meanwhile, various unwanted software enters your computer while you are surfing the Internet. In several cases, they force you to trigger a download by clicking a pop-up window or a fake dialog box. Some pop-up windows contain an “urgent” or compelling message. This could be an offer of a free gift or a statement that you need to download software to view a web page. This window typically presents a “yes” or “no” option. In fact, if you click on the window, it will start downloading the spyware or adware onto your computer; therefore, always close this window.
How to avoid spyware and adware
Many unwanted software end up being installed on your computer because of something you did or didn’t do. How to avoid unwanted spyware and adware:
- Choose the downloads you make to your computer carefully. Check whether you really need this program before downloading it. And if you’ve never heard of the software maker, read their website carefully to learn more about the technology and the people behind it. Also watch out for ActiveX, a common tool for installing spyware without your knowledge or consent. Disable ActiveX through your browser preferences and enable it again if a trusted website requests it.
- Read licensing agreements. Reading contracts online can be tedious, but it’s always best not to take any risks. It is not recommended to go straight to the bottom of the page and click the “I Accept” or “Agree” button when installing freeware. It is best to read the contract carefully and look for terms regarding any information collection activities, which may indicate the presence of spyware or adware integrated into the free product.
- Be aware of antispyware scams. The Internet is full of “antispyware” tools that do very little to prevent this threat. Some even make the situation worse. Vendors of these tools often offer free scans, which often identify hundreds of spyware programs on your computer. They then recommend that you immediately purchase their fake products.
- Keep an eye out for ads that solicit clicks. Avoid programs, especially free ones, that display advertisements that flash on the screen and request clicks. These ads should be completely avoided. If you click on these ads, it is possible that someone is watching your reaction to them.
Unfortunately, spyware and adware aren’t going away anytime soon. However, you can control and decide what goes into your computer and what doesn’t.
