Spyware Detection

Spyware is a form of “Malware” (short for “Malicious Sofware“) a generic name for software which intentionally performs actions which can damage data or disrupt systems. Usually only a problem for Windows computers, not those that run Mac OS or Linux.

Spyware is software that secretly gathers information about a user while he/she navigates the Internet. It is often/usually installed without the user’s knowledge or explicit permission.

Adware is software that causes disruptive and unwanted advertising to appear in various programs, e.g. “pop-ups”.

I’ve never actually used a paid-for Spyware/Malware scanner, so I can’t comment on what they’re like, it would be interesting to know if any of them add any features to the programs I have used (listed below). If you have experience of any non-free spyware scanners, post a comment 🙂

To scan your computer for spyware, adware, or other malware, these free programs do a good job:

You can actually install both of these programs at the same time. They are likely to find a number of items that can be deleted from your computer, particularly if you’ve never run a Spyware scanner before.

Most of these won’t be anything to worry about too much, but occasionally (depending on the sites you’ve visited) something more dangerous will appear.

In most cases the program will then help you remove those unnecessary items. This may help your computer to run faster, either by removing malicious programs or by deleting unnecessary programs or “cookies” from your computer.

If one of these programs finds something that it tells you it can’t fix, then you need to seek urgent help from a computer expert, and expect to pay him for his advice/expertise 😉