Spyware and Adware
All Internet users should be aware of programs or files that can potentially
cause problems for their computer. Spyware/Adware (referred to as
Spyware for the rest of this document) is one such type of technology
that can compromise your online experience if you are not aware of
how to protect yourself and your computer.
What is Spyware?
Spyware is the name for any program that collects information on which
web sites you visit on the Internet. If you are unaware that the information
is being collected and distributed, the program is “spying”.
Companies use Spyware so that they can adjust their ads to show services
or merchandise similar to what you have shown interest in before.
Also, interested companies can use the data as research information,
as if you were participating in a survey you never signed up for.
Should I be concerned?
While it is good to be aware of the effects that Spyware can have
on your computer, it is a personal choice whether or not to take action.
Some people are very concerned about protecting their privacy on the
Internet. Others may only view Spyware as a nuisance. Whether this
is viewed as an invasion of privacy or not, the programs can alter
your system’s files and cause you some headaches while browsing.
Because of this, most people noticing the effects of Spyware want
to take action against these programs.
How can I tell if there is Spyware on my computer?
If you see any new or different toolbars on your Internet Explorer
program, you could have some form of Spyware on your computer. This
is also likely if your homepage has changed unexpectedly, or you are
getting a lot of pop-up windows. Spyware can install itself without
your consent.
How did this software get on my computer?
Not all Spyware comes in without your permission. One way you may
have agreed to install it unknowingly is through accepting the terms
of a license agreement. Spyware can be legitimate if you have given
your permission to have the data collected from your computer. This
information could be hidden in the privacy statement that you agree
to when downloading or installing a new program. If you read the fine
print, you could find that you are being asked if it is all right
to install hidden programs or to give certain individuals or vendors
access to your computer. If you allow it, this is a legal agreement
to have Spyware on your computer.
Programs that spy on your browsing without your permission can sneak
in when you click on certain banners or pop-ups. Be careful when clicking
on banner ads while browsing; these can invite illegitimate advertisers
to collect data from you.
How do I protect myself?
Certain settings can help keep Spyware programs from leaving cookies
on your computer. There are browsing options you can set to allow,
deny, or restrict cookies. However, blocking cookies is usually not
recommended, as it will allow you to only view sites that do not use
cookies. Since blocking cookies causes such restrictions, a better
way to protect your computer from Spyware is to download a program
to try and block the cookies that you don't want, and still allow
the ones you need. Read all the information offered to make sure you
are downloading a legitimate program. The following link gives examples
of programs that are available to download that block Spyware:
Please note: This software is not manufactured, nor is any guarantee on its functionality made, by MMCTSU. If you experience problems with these programs, please contact the manufacturer of the software directly.
If a Spyware blocker you have downloaded doesn’t work for you,
make sure to uninstall it completely before trying to download another
one to try. If you don’t, the program can identify a competing
program and cause certain files to become inactive.
If you know what’s causing your browsing problems then you
know what to try and take action against. With a knowledgeable approach
to blocking Spyware, your browsing experience can be an enjoyable
one.
Extra Links:
Please note: This software is not manufactured, nor is any guarantee on its functionality made, by MMCTSU. If you experience problems with these programs, please contact the manufacturer of the software directly.
