Spyware

Spyware is a type of software that gathers and reports information about a computer user without the user's knowledge or consent.  These can perform a range of different functions, such as causing unwanted pop-up advertising, tracking a users internet usage, logging keyboard strokes, steal password information and other private information, installing secret premium rate phone diallers etc.

Spyware Protection

To avoid spyware don't install unnecessary software, especially from the internet as many apparently legitimate programmes contain spyware.

Always keep your anti-virus, firewall, web-browser and operating systems up to date with the latest patches.

Many spyware programmes specifically target Internet Explorer so switching to an alternative web browser such as Firefox can help.

There are software programs that can remove or protect against Spyware although no single application provides complete protection. Well established free removal tools include Ad-Aware, Spybot Search & Destroy and HijackThis.