Adware

• Can be distributed as freeware or shareware.
   
• Produces pop-up ads.
   
• Tracks browser activities.

Spyware

• Are executable programs.
   
• Distributed with other software such as freeware, shareware, or browser add-ons like a toolbar.
   
• Tracks Internet activities of the computer user.
   
• Can obtain information about data stored on the computer; i.e. email addresses, passwords, credit card numbers.
   
• Could monitor your keystrokes.
   
• Uses memory and system resources.
   
• Can lead to system crashes.

Signs of Infection

• The look of your browser or PC has changed.
   
• The default home page in the browser has changed.
   
• New toolbars have been added to your browser software. Toolbars can contain spyware or adware attached.
   
• New sites have been added to your Favorites list.
   
• There is an increased number of pop-ups.
   
• The performance of your computer system slows down.

Solutions

• Install anti-Spyware software on your system and keep it updated. Anti-spyware is software that searches for Spyware files and deletes them.
   
• Keep your operating system up-to-date.
   
• Install a Firewall which prevents unauthorized use and access to your computer,
  Or Turn on the Firewall if you have Windows XP.
  (Click on Start; Go to the Control Panel; Click on Window Firewall icon)
   
• Back-up system.
   
• Do not click on banner ads; go directly to site. Banner ads go through third party.
   
• Do not click on any links in a pop-up window; Close pop-up window by clicking the X button in the titlebar.
   
• Close any unusual dialog boxes by clicking the X button in the Title Bar.
   
• Avoid free software, smiley faces, music, screensavers, etc.
   
• Change your browser options to block or limit pop-up windows.
   
• Delete all Temporary Internet Files frequently.
  (Click on Tools in your brower menu bar; Click on Internet Options;
  Click on Delete Cookies, Delete Files, and Clear History)

Links

Home PC Firewall Guide

How Stuff Works: How Spyware Works

Mcafee: PC security software

Microsoft Security and Security at Home: Protect Your PC

PC Magazine: "Antispyware"

PC World: "Best Defenders"

Spyware Guide

Symantec: Provides PC security software such as Norton Internet Security.

Take a Bite Out of Cyber Crime

Trend Micro: Housecall: Scan your PC for viruses and spyware free.

United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team

Webopedia: An online encyclopedia of computer technology

The Difference Between Adware & Spyware