Reduce the risks of spyware, adware and popups. Is your computer's performance slowing down? Do you wonder why your home page keeps changing or where those pop-ups come from? You can prevent those annoyances and threats with proper prevention, tools and monitoring.
Spyware is software that performs certain behaviors, such as filling your screen with advertising pop-ups (such programs are known as adware), collecting or transmitting personal information (through keystroke loggers), or changing the configuration of your computer, generally without your consent. Spyware can find its way onto your computer through free software downloads, malicious Web sites, clicking on pop-up ads, file transfers over instant messaging, or opening infected e-mail attachments. The results of spyware include decreased browsing speeds, system crashes, and compromised personal security.
Here's how to minimize your risk of unwittingly installing spyware and adware: