Twin Computer Threats: Adware and Spyware

Spyware has become a persistent problem for many internet users, especially those who frequently download software, music, movies, and other files from web sites. Some types of spyware are difficult to notice. They perform their duties behind the scenes, so you never really see what they are doing. Adware, however, is a type of spyware that often makes it presence known with pop-ups and advertisements.

What are Spyware and Adware?

Spyware is a small program that infiltrates a computer unbeknownst to the user and gathers information about the user’s activity. Some spyware is designed to capture private information such as credit card numbers and bank account passwords. They are one of the ways that tech-savvy criminals steal information to commit identity theft.

Adware is a program that displays advertisements to the computer user. Many of these programs qualify as spyware because they gather information about the different types of services and products that you look at online. This allows the software to target users with advertisements that apply to their interests. To you this might sound creepy but otherwise benign. Unfortunately, some spyware masquerades as simple adware. It acts like adware by showing you advertisements, but it also captures your private information.

How Do Computers Get Adware Spyware?

Believe it or not, you have probably given several companies permission to install adware spyware on your computer. Information gathering adware often comes in software bundles. If you have downloaded programs like AOL Instant Messenger or DivX Player, then there is a good chance that you have some type of adware installed on your machine.

How do companies get away with this? Mostly by asking you if they can include the adware in your download. The problem is that few internet users take the time to read through lengthy legalese every time they download something. Even if you do, there is a good chance that you won’t even recognize the name of the adware spyware that you download. You just think it’s part of the program, so you accept it.

Are There Nefarious Ways That Computers Can Get Adware Spyware?

Absolutely. There are plenty of underhanded and nefarious ways that computer users can unknowingly download adware spyware. As if downloading them with “permission” from legitimate companies isn’t bad enough, many of the adware programs are contained within downloads that don’t even attempt the courtesy of letting you know that you are installing a potentially dangerous piece of programming on your computer.

This type of adware spyware, however, is easier to avoid than software that comes bundled with legitimate programs. For instance, if you download files such as music, movies, or software illegally, then you are taking a big risk. There is a good chance that you will soon download a file that contains surreptitious adware and spyware that will infect your computer.

What Are the Effects of Adware as Spyware?

Even benign adware as spyware can have negative effects on your computer use. You will usually notice that your computer slows down significantly or that it has problems connecting to the internet. If you download spyware with a more nefarious purpose, then you might find out after the fact when a collection agency calls asking about missing payments for items that you never bought.

How Do I Eliminate Adware Spyware?

There are plenty of adware and spyware remover programs available on the internet. Read a few reviews, though, to make sure that you choose one that is safe and effective. These programs will spot recognized adware as spyware and eliminate them from your hard drive. Be sure to update and run the removal software often, though, to catch the latest versions that might plague your computer.