Everyone has heard of the need for antivirus and anti-spyware programs, but some people still dont realize what spyware is, or why its so dangerous. Spyware is not the same as a computer virus. Viruses corrupt files and destroy data. Spyware generally keeps track of where you go online, and sends this information to advertising agencies who then use the data for various purposes. It can also change your home page, slow down computer performance, and the more dangerous types log your keystrokes for possible password and credit card number gathering schemes.
Perhaps the most insidious thing about spyware is that it is often installed without our knowledge free programs online can sometimes be the culprit, but spyware is also sometimes downloaded and installed simply by visiting certain websites that exploit security problems in various browsers.
Preventing the spread of spyware is an important aspect of computer security. Spyware and other unwanted software can invade your privacy, liter your machines with pop-up windows and even make your computer crash. Just as we should keep passwords safe, we should also take steps to ensure that our passwords arent...