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Avoid Spyware
Spyware (or adware) is a piece of software that covertly gathers user information through the user's internet connection without his or her knowledge, usually for advertising purposes. Spyware applications are typically bundled as a hidden component of freeware or shareware programs that can be downloaded from the internet. Once installed, the spyware monitors user activity on the internet and transmits that information in the background to someone else.
Spyware differs from viruses and worms in that it does not usually self-replicate (ie. send to other contacts in your email address book). Like many recent viruses, however, spyware – by design – exploits infected computers for commercial gain. Typical tactics furthering this goal include delivery of unsolicited pop-up advertisements; theft of personal information (including financial information such as credit card numbers); monitoring of Web-browsing activity for marketing purposes; or routing of web search requests to advertising sites.
The most direct route by which spyware can infect a computer involves the user installing it. However, users tend not to install software if they know that it will disrupt their working environment and compromise their privacy. So many spyware programs deceive the users, either by 'piggybacking' on a piece of desirable software, or by tricking the users to do something that installs the software without them realising.
Software solutions exist to search for spyware and eliminate it. Both paid, and free versions of spyware software exist. Microsoft has produced a free spyware package called Windows Defender. Further solutions exist in terms of purchasable software.
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