Spyware is programming that can be put into your computer to gather information about you without your knowledge as information to advertisers and other interested parties. Spyware can get in a computer as a software virus, as the result of installing an infected program, a download, or as the result of clicking an option in a pop-up window.

How to detect spyware

If you see new toolbars in your Internet Explorer that you didn't intentionally install, your browser crashes, or your browser start page has changed without your knowing, you most probably have spyware. But even if you don't see anything, you may be infected, because more and more spyware is emerging that is silently tracking your Internet surfing behavior to create a marketing profile of you that will be sold to companies. Spyware can slow down your computer, as well as provide your email address for spamming purposes.

How to prevent and eliminate spyware

If you are on a departmental network, please contact your technical staff with any questions and recommendations to counter spyware. To prevent and eliminate spyware IPS recommends installing antispyware, available on the University's software portal to faculty, staff and students at no cost. Be sure to use a version supported by the university, as there are unofficial versions which may do damage.

Malware

Malware includes Viruses, Worms, Spyware, Adware, Browser hijacking, Web Bugs, and other software. Anyone using a computer regularly should become familiar with the wide expanse of malicious programs which can affect computers.

Viruses and Worms: If you have not already installed an antivirus program , it is advisable to do so now
The program is protecting you from viruses and worms. For more information please visit:
Viruses web page.
Worms web page

Trojan Horse programs are different enough to warrant their own page.

Trojan Horse Programs

Bugnosis