Sound like a nuisance? This is how Adware and Spyware work - they are computer programs that attach themselves like glue to whatever files you download online. They are designed to track you wherever you go online. Adware, sometimes referred to as freeware, goes the extra step to 'pop-up' ads when you open a website or web page or open a program.
Spyware are somewhat similar in that they are also freeware, but spyware programs have embedded tracking programs which report your activities on the web to the spyware agent, which in turn provides the information to advertisers and web developers. Armed with your web surfing information, advertisers and web developers can feed your computer with any information they want without your consent and even without you noticing it.
The best course of action is to consistently employ some precautionary measures to keep your machine free from spyware and adware. These measures include disabling automatic installation of software programs in your internet browser, and the use of pop-up blockers and a robust firewall program. Then, purchasing and installing a reputable anti-adware/spyware program will provide you protection against data-mining, parasites, aggressive advertising, scumware and some traditional viruses and tracking systems like trojans, dialers, malware and browser hijackers.
Other popular and handy anti-spyware software include Spyware Doctor, an advanced adware and spyware removal program; Free Spyware Scanner, which tells the user how their computer got infected and the best solution for spyware removal; Spy-Ad Exterminator Free, which searches your machine's hard drives and registry for spyware, adware, worms, hijacks, keyloggers; and Spy Cleaner Lite, which identifies and removes programs that have been secretly installed in your system without your consent.
Generally, these anti-spyware scanner and removal utilities will locate spyware and adware on your machine and delete, or quarantine each of them. Some anti-spyware programs will remove spyware automatically while other provides a user interface option where you can customize specific actions to take, like ignoring the detected file.
It's your call which software you use to combat the adware/spyware threat. With all of the programs available, it's not hard to pick one - just ensure it's reputable and up to your particular needs. For a thorough review of some of the best programs available and to help you decide which to use, try http://WebBiz.bezoogle.com/pp/adware
by Casey Shea
About the Author
Casey writes on computer and technical issues, with emphasis on the subjects of Adware and Spyware removal tools. For a review of threat removal tools that fit your particular needs, visit http://WebBiz.bezoogle.com/pp/adware
