Computer Spyware

Programs that spy on your computer

While not as destructive as viruses, computer spyware programs are more common and widespread on the internet. Often downloaded unknown to you, hidden in files, most spyware tend to track your internet movements and collect data. These spyware programs range from harmless to intrusive.

However, there are more dangerous spyware programs that more systematically intrude on your computer and pose greater threat to your privacy. You must take steps to protect yourself against these attacks, such as for example Botnets, often perpetrated by hackers.

Spyware threats to your computer

Learn more about spyware threat in these articles:

• Adware - When you use your computer for online work, reasearch and entertainment, you will end up with adware being installed ony our computer without your consent. These could be harmless tracking programs, or nasty monitors of your online habits. 
• Botnets - This is probably one of the works threats to your computer system, difficult to locate and even harder to delete when infection occurs. Botnets are often used by hackers to infiltrate computers and use them as a network to propagate viruses and spam, to infect other computers.   
• Spyware - Often used in advertising, these spying programs infest possibly some 80% of computers, mostly unknown to their owners. Often a dozen or more of spyware programs can be found on any computer, tracking user's online habits.   
• CounterSpy - Being generally a nuissance, spyware is a booming industry, using agressive advertising and spying tactics on you. One of the best spyware removal programs is CounterSpy, by Sunbelt Software.   
• Spyware Programs - You already have learned that many spware programs could be infesting your computer right now. There are 3 basic ways in which you get these programs: freeware and shareware, deceptive downloads, and security holes.   
• Intelligent Explorer - Although a rare threat today, masquerading as Internet Explorer toolbar, this deceptive software program will generate a lot of unwanted popups and downloads without your permission.   
• Spyware Remover Programs - Spyware programs track your internet usage, collect personal data, and spawn popup advertisements. This can cause your computer to slow down, or worse. Windows Spyware Remover, Ad-Aware, and Spybot can all help you delete spyware from your computer.   

Beware of computer spyware infecting your computer