Keep Spyware off your Computer
If you've come across news articles or Web sites about spyware but think "it could never affect my computer," think again! Spyware is sneakier than you suspect and NUIT's new Spyware Web site shows you how to fight back!
Spyware is most commonly installed as a component of freeware and shareware applications, such as the popular Kazaa Media Desktop software. Some malicious spyware makes changes that can cause your computer to slow down or crash. Other spyware changes your Web browser's home page or adds unwanted components to your browser. "Adware" watches your online activity on behalf of Internet advertisers, sometimes collecting sensitive information from your computer.
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How do I know if I have spyware?
- You see unexpected pop-up ads (even when you're not surfing the Web).
- Your Web browser's home page or settings have changed "on their own."
- Your computer runs much slower than usual or crashes more often.
- You installed software and it installed a second piece of software automatically (that second piece of software is often spyware).
How do I remove spyware from my computer?
To diagnose and repair spyware, NUIT recommends Spybot Search & Destroy, a free download off the Spybot Web site. Due to the complex nature of spyware applications, no single software program offers complete protection. Using multiple anti-spyware tools may be the best way to secure your computer.
For Spybot download instructions and configuration information, visit NUIT's Get Control Web site.
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The term "spyware" generally refers to any type of technology that collects and transmits information about a person or their browsing, usually for advertising purposes.
Think of it as someone looking over your shoulder and writing down everything you see and do. |
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 A screen shot of the recommended application to diagnose
and repair spyware: Spybot Search & Destroy.How do I avoid spyware?
The Internet is a lot like a neighborhood, there are good and bad places in the neighborhood. If you are doing something of questionable ethics, such as sharing copyrighted music files, keep in mind that the programs and sites enabling you to do this won't think twice about using your computer and/or information for their own gain.
- Don't go to Web sites that you don't trust.
- Don't install software when you're unsure of what it does.
- Programs like Kazaa and many other file sharing programs install a huge amount of spyware, avoid them.
- If a Web browser or instant messenger pop up asks you to install software, be cautious. Know what you're installing.
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