Detecting Spyware

Adware and Spyware are malicious software programs that allows the creators to spy on your browsing activity, invade your privacy, and flood you with annoying/offensive pop-ups. Often times your browsers default homepage and settings can be hijacked and you can not change them back by the normal known procedures. These software programs are often downloaded onto a user's machine from the Internet without the user's knowledge and installs itself on your machine.

What does spyware do?

Anything. It may collect data about your Web browsing habits, change your home or search page, force you to certain Web sites, alter network settings, or perform other actions.

Is it harmful to my computer?

It may be. Spyware may interfere with Internet Explorer or Windows and cause frequent errors or crashes.

How does it get installed?

It may come bundled with a "free" program, often filesharing software, browser toolbars or games. It may be installed by visiting certain Web sites or a variety of other means.

Learn more about spyware:

• http://www.spywareguide.com
• http://www.spywareinfo.com

Getting the tools:

• For Windows operating systems: http://helpdesk.psu.edu/spyware/pcspyware.html
• For Mac operating systems: http://helpdesk.psu.edu/spyware/macspyware.html
• For Linux operating systems: http://helpdesk.psu.edu/linux/spywrvirus.html