PC Fitness 2006 - Spyware Information
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Spyware is different from viruses. Let
me attempt to explain:
A virus is a program, usually downloaded by email.
Most viruses attempt to do harm to your computer files. While most
are low-impact, there are some that will delete very important files that
make your PC run.
Spyware (also called AdWare) is also a program, but it has a different
function. Most spyware programs are installed when you mistakenly
click a link on the Internet. These links come in many forms, from
the familiar-looking Windows error, to simple requests to download
programs to "help your viewing experience".
Once executed, they can wreak havoc on a PC - especially
one on a cable or DSL connection. These programs are built to watch
your every click on the Internet. Then they 'report' back to a
server somewhere online with your history. That server then analyzes
your data and pushes out relevant ads that you might click on. If
you click, they get paid. Sad, but true.
Its entirely possible to literally have hundreds of
these programs running on a PC at one time. They can slow your
PC to a crawl. If you aren't really
careful about what you click, or if your teenager is secretly visiting
scantily-clad female websites, chances are you've got spyware.
So how do you get rid of it?
There are two great programs that hunt down and destroy Spyware.
Once you've installed one of these programs, you'll need
to scan your PC. Depending on your hard drive size, and the amount
of spyware on your PC, this could take a few hours to complete!
After the scan completes, you will need to select all the spyware traces
found on your PC and either quarantine or delete them.
Still having troulble? If you are in the St. Louis
area, contact xx for repair rates.
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