What is Spyware

Just about every computer that's been connected to the Internet will have spyware on it. It's almost impossible to avoid, and the results can be devastating. Here's a quick look at what Spyware actually is and how best to fight it.

What is this Spyware stuff?

Spyware is an unwanted program or setting that gets onto your computer without your knowledge (or consent!) and does any one of a number of nasty things once it's there. Spyware is different from a virus in that it does not self replicate.

The damage that spyware can do ranges from annoying popping up ads, to much more serious problems such as transmitting your credit card details to third parties. Spyware can also 'Hijack' your web browser, sending it where you didn't want to go.

How do you get Spyware?

You don't have to actually do anything to get infected by spyware. It's actually very difficult not to get it once you're connected to the web. People are often shocked at how much they've accumulated when they run a spyware scan for the first time.

You can get spyware by visiting a website, by downloading an innocent looking bit of software, installing a toolbar, and numerous other ways. If you've ever been online, I'll wager you've already got a fair wad of it lurking on your system.

Who's making all this spyware?

Certain types of spyware are clearly illegal. Keyloggers that steal your credit card details are created by criminals seeking to steal from you. But there's also a semi-legitimate spyware that's not technically illegal. Spyware that generates pop-up ads on your system or that installs a toolbar, for example. Spyware of this kind is released by companies looking to make money from you. Most spyware generates revenue by showing you ads, or hijacking your browser.

Are you infected?

You'd be very lucky not to have been stealthily attacked by spyware if you've been online - even for a short time. And having an anti-virus program installed on your system won't help protect you from it either. Sluggish PC performance, a change in your homepage and popup ads are all symptoms that spyware has found it's way onto your PC.

There are also many serious things that can be going on without you noticing it either - such as someone recording everything you type on your keyboard. While these kinds of spyware attacks are less common, they really do happen.

Dealing with spyware

There's generally a two-part prescription for dealing spyware. First, you need to remove the spyware that's on your computer. Secondly, you'll need to get some 'realtime' protection from future attacks. You can download special software from the internet that are called any of the following aliases:

• spyware removers
• spyware scanners
• spyware tools
• anti-spyware programs

They're designed to be incredibly easy to use and will scan and immunize your PC automatically.

Unlike other kinds of software, you don't generally buy it for a lifetime. You subscribe for around $30 per year. This is because the software has to be updated on a regular basis - several times each week. New spyware is released constantly and you will need to continually update the spyware software's knowledge bank with what are called definition updates. Again, this is all very easy to do and takes only a click or two.

Spyware and the future

Like other computer threats online, email spam, viruses etc. Spyware isn't going anywhere - SADLY! It's here to stay. And it's always evolving and changing. The good news is that the anti-spyware software makers are equally as active in their fight against it. Every time a new spyware threat comes along (which can happen almost daily) a new update will be released for your spyware tool to beat it.

The best any of us can do is to make an informed choice about the spyware removal tools we use, keep them up-to-date and run spyware scans regularly. It's also important to tell everyone you know uses a computer what spyware is, and point them towards the spyware scanner you're currently using. Especially people who aren't particularly good with computers.

* Not all spyware scanners are created equally. There are some very good programs available and some seriously awful ones too. Make sure to check out the reviews section here and choose a good tool.