What is spyware? Spyware
is a general term used to describe software that
performs certain behaviors such as advertising,
collecting personal information, or changing the
configuration of your computer, generally without
appropriately obtaining your consent first.
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 that provides ads or
tracks your online activities is bad. For example, you
might sign up for a free music service, but you "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 spyware make changes to your computer
that can be annoying and can cause your computer slow
down or crash.
These programs can 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.
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 computer. To learn more about
spyware, read How to help prevent spyware. 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 install 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
might appear at the end of a license agreement or
privacy statement.
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