Spyware is software that covertly gathers user information through the users Internet connection without his or her knowledge, usually for advertising purposes.

Quite often spyware can be bundled as a hiddent component of some freeware or shareware programs which have been downloaded from the internet. Common sources of spyware would also include downloading some peer to peer file sharing software. Once installed on a computer, the spyware monitors the users activity on the internet and transmits that information to someone else, in the background without the users knowledge or consent.  Spyware also uses computer resources and  internet bandwidth as it sends and receives information via the users home broadband connection. This can cause poor system performance or what seems like a slow internet connection.  Spyware has been known to monitor keyboard strokes, scan files on a hard drive, install other spyware, change the home page while constantly feeding information to a third party. Because it is using system resources, it can also cause instability of the operating system, possibly causing system or program crashes.

Avoiding Spyware!

• Ensure your computer is protected with a valid and up to date anti virus program that includes spyware protection.
• Ensure that your computer is running a valid firewall. Most anti virus programs have a firewall function and Windows has an  inbuilt firewall that should be kept running.
• Avoid peer to peer sile sharing. Many file sharing services contain spyware in their installation procedures.
• Avoid downloading or installing executable files (*.exe) from any source other than a major or well respected  vendor (e.g Microsoft, PC Manufacturer etc).
  Also avoid installing any program that you are not 100% certain of its origin.. You should carefully check the licence agreement presented during the installation to ensure the software is legitimate.
• Avoid/Delete any unsolicited emails and their attachments. In your email client it is advised to turn off the preview panel to ensure such mails are deleted before opening them.
• Ensure security levels are adepuate in your browser and deny installation of any ActiveX controls you have not specified.