Welcome to the online guide to spyware and adware.  We have composed information about both in a short read below.  Please use the back and next links to browse through the pages. Spyware Spyware is any software program that aids in gathering information about a person or organization without their knowledge, and can relay this information back to an unauthorized third party. Methods of Delivery:  Spyware may arrive bundled with freeware or shareware, through peer-to-peer downloads, attached to or embedded in email or instant messenger communications, as an ActiveX installation, or may be placed on your computer accidentally or deliberately by someone with access to it.  Once on your system, spyware secretly installs itself and goes to work.  Unlike personalization or session cookies, spyware is difficult to detect, and difficult (if not impossible) for the average user to remove. While some spyware is installed with the user's knowledge (although the user may not understand exactly what he/she has done), much of the time it is installed surreptitiously as part of another program installation.  Even if the bundling of the software and information tracking practices are disclosed to the consumer through the End User Agreement, such disclosures are rarely noticed by users or give them any real understanding of what information will be collected by the spyware and how the collecting party will use it. Characteristics:  Because spyware is not viral, anti-virus software does not offer protection.  By attaching itself to legitimate downloads, spyware easily passes through firewalls unchallenged.  By intertwining itself with files essential to system operation, spyware cannot safely be removed by simply deleting files with a system cleaning tool. Effects:  In their most benign form, spyware programs can significantly slow systems down and result in more popup ads than usual.  At their most malicious, spyware programs can lead to identity theft, theft of intellectual and other property, and data corruption.   previous page  |  next page   The definitive Guide to Spyware and Adware! View our SpyBuster products now - Click Here!