Spyware and Adware

What is Spyware and Adware?

Spyware installs itself onto your computer with out you knowing and sends information from that computer to a third party without the user's permission or knowledge. Be careful entering personal details into sites if you think your system is infected with Spyware.

Adware will display adverts - most commonly as 'pop-up' messages - which affects the way you use your computer and in extreme cases will cause the system to crash. Sometimes it is difficult to do anything when these pop up adverts are constantly appearing. However, some web sites use the javascript that makes a window appear on entering, or on clicking a button. You need to have control over which pop ups you want and which you don't, and it is a good idea to learn the difference between them:

Most adware pop ups will offer you money or prizes, or will be of adult content, and more often than not tell you to "click here for more information". Some adware pop ups will trick you into clicking on them, using the RED CROSS. People hit a replica image of the cross, thinking they are closing the window, and are then transferred to a web site. When trying to close these windows either use the short cut key "Control W" (PC) or make SURE you are clicking on the cross on the top right of the window.

Pop-up windows on web sites are usually uniform with the site you have accessed, and will contain news and information on the company, or may ask you to click OK for a disclaimer to enter the site, such as "Do you agree with our terms and conditions?". When blocking ALL pop-ups you can stop some web sites from functioning properly, so keep an eye out and "allow pop ups" on those sites that use them.

Protection

Internet Explorer now provides protection against "pop-up windows". However, as suggested above, some web sites use these windows so you have to be vigilant. You can turn this off when in Internet Explorer by clicking TOOLS, INTERNET OPTIONS and then the ADVANCED tab.

Most virus software, such as Norton's Anti-Virus , Sophos and Trend Micro , include protection from Spyware and Adware when you buy the right version, and will let you control the way you protect your system, so you can view the pop-ups you wish to.

If you want a little more protection use a free spyware or adware programme , and run it every week to clear up your system. Spybot and Ad Aware are available for download from www.download.com - click here to access the correct Spyware Page.

The reports on this page are for your information only. Kaydee will not be liable for any damage, loss of money or any other problems that arise if you do take actions on the advice given.