Spyware FAQ

What is Spyware?
How do I know if I have spyware or other unwanted software on my computer?
How can I prevent spyware?
How can I remove spyware or other unwanted software from my computer?

1) What is Spyware?

According to an article on microsoft.com, "Spyware is a general term used for software that performs certain behaviors such as advertising, collecting personal information, or changing the configuration of your computer, generally without appropriately obtaining your consent." Click the following link to read the full article. http://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/spyware/spywarewhat.mspx

2) How do I know if I have spyware or other unwanted software on my computer.

According to an article on microsoft.com, "You might have spyware or other unwanted software on your computer if:

• You see pop-up advertisements even when you're not on the Web.

• The page your Web browser first opens to (your home page) or your browser search settings have changed without your knowledge.

• You notice a new toolbar in your browser that you didn't want, and find it difficult to get rid of.

• Your computer takes longer than usual to complete certain tasks.

• You experience a sudden rise in computer crashes."

Click the following link to read the full article. http://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/spyware/spywaresigns.mspx

3) How can I prevent spyware?

Microsoft offers the following tips on how to surf the internet and download more safely.

• Only download programs from Web sites you trust. If you're not sure whether to trust a program you are considering downloading, ask a knowledgeable friend or enter the name of the program into your favorite search engine to see if anyone else has reported that it contains spyware.

• Read all security warnings, license agreements, and privacy statements associated with any software you download.

• Never click "agree" or "OK" to close a window. Instead, click the red "x" in the corner of the window or press the Alt + F4 buttons on your keyboard to close a window.

• Be wary of popular "free" music and movie file-sharing programs, and be sure you clearly understand all of the software packaged with those programs.

Click here to read a full article on how to prevent spyware. http://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/spyware/spywareprevent.mspx

4) How can I remove spyware or other unwanted software from my computer?

There are several programs that claim to scan and remove spyware. The following website lists several programs that "claim" to be anti-spyware products but may not be valid: http://www.spywarewarrior.com/rogue_anti-spyware.htm#products

Please contact your technical support personnel or the Ag Comm Help Desk with questions or assistance removing spyware.