If you are a regular Internet user, then you’ve perhaps come across the term “spyware”. This is a pretty good definition of what these programs are. Spyware is a program that exists within your computer system to carry out functions like displaying unwanted ads, recording your keystrokes, and even monitoring how much you use your computer.
These programs enter your computer system without you even aware of it (just like real spies). They may slip past you when you’re downloading music, or they may even be disguised as programs that you thought were not harmful. That’s how tricky the authors of these programs are.
So what exactly does this mean for you? The implications of this range from the frustrating, to the down-right maddening. On the other hand, some spyware programs simply generate pop-up ads while you are browsing. Others can re-define your browser’s homepage. Read more . . .