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Spyware

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The words "spyware" and "adware" can be confusing, because they're used to describe a lot of different technologies. The two important things to know about spyware and adware programs is that 1) they can download themselves onto your computer without your permission when you visit an unsafe Web site or download an application you want and spyware is attached and 2) they can make your computer do things you don't want it to do.

Sometimes that might be as simple as opening an advertisement or pop-up you didn't want to see. In the worst cases spyware can track your online movements, log your keystrokes (steal your passwords and compromise your accounts), and send copies of email and other documents to third parties.

Spyware is difficult to detect and remove. Warning signs that spyware might be on your computer include:

  • Your computer becomes sluggish or slow;
  • Your computer won’t shut down or start up properly;
  • You are unintentionally redirected to web pages you didn’t intend to visit;
  • Your computer is sending email you didn’t write (unexplained undeliverable emails in you inbox may be a clue); and
  • You receive numerous pop-up ads even when not on the web. 

The danger of spyware is one reason that NCSA’s top tips include keeping your anti-spyware software up to date.

If you believe you computer has become infected with spyware, immediately stop using websites and software that requires you to use a login, a password and submit personal information.

Make sure you have the most recent updates of your anti-spyware program and then scan your computer for spyware programs. Delete all programs and files your anti-spyware recommends.  If you are extremely concerned, consider disconnecting your computer from the Internet once the software is updated and only reconnect when you are sure the problems are resolved.

Be aware that spyware can be used in the crimes of domestic violence and stalking.  Perpetrators of these crimes are trying to track and conduct surveillance on all their victim’s movements and communications. These cases can be extremely dangerous. If you believe you are victim of these crimes, contact a local victim service provider or the National Center for Victims of Crime (www.ncvc.org) at 800-FYI-CALL.  Be extremely careful of using your computer under these circumstances. Perpetrators might even be able to see that you are erasing data and that can be dangerous as well. If need be, use a computer in a public library or other safe location so a perpetrator cannot see the history of websites you are visiting or any planning you may have underway. Domestic violence and stalking are crimes in every state; contacting law enforcement is an important option worth considering.

Learn more about efforts to combat spyware at: www.antispywarecoalition.org and www.onguardonline.gov the Federal Trade Commissions website for Internet safety.