Spyware? Should You Care?

The installation of "spyware" and similar programs that can record activity (keystrokes, web site visits, etc.) on your computer has, no doubt, already happen unbeknownst to you.

More and more of this category of invasive computer "malware" is getting added to people's machines as they click around the Internet. Again, unless you have a program installed on your computer to counter (and delete/destroy) spyware, you have no idea that this stuff is getting placed on your computer.

Like most things, the best place to start in becoming able to combat spyware and keep it from reporting things about your computer activity, not to mention slowing down your computer's performance, is knowing what you're up against.

Mike Emery, of New Philadelphia City Schools, has written a very good summary that describes what we are all up against. He also includes some excellent and practical advice on how you can minimize or completely avoid these invaders. This description is well-written and well-worth the time to read.

Mike's document is called: Spyware, Malware, and Adware (this is a .pdf file)

If you would like to really dive into the whole question of adware, spyware, and maintaining your computer's security and integrity, you might want to read Removing Spyware by Michael Horowitz. Mr. Horowitz goes into a great deal of detail and is also quite fascinating.