SPYWARE

Definition
Signs of infection
Treatment

Definition

Spyware is a type of software that installs itself on your computer, usually without your knowledge.It collects information on you by tracking your Internet surfing habits, identifying your preferences and, in some cases, even recording your keystrokes. This information is then sent to a third party for advertising purposes or other potentially malicious activities.

This practice is not illegal because the software manufacturers usually do not have criminal motives. Nevertheless, it is a threat to individual privacy and could compromise the confidentiality of information.

Spyware can install itself in many different ways and is difficult to detect, as it usually does not appear in the list of programs installed on your computer. You can “catch” spyware by downloading free software containing it, visiting certain websites, sharing files online (peer-to-peer) or after being infected by a virus. Simply by clicking on “I accept” or “OK,” you could provide a way for spyware to sneak into your system.

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Signs of infection

Spyware is likely present in your system if:

• Your computer is performing more slowly than usual
• You are automatically redirected to a page you did not type into your browser
• You are constantly bombarded with pop-up advertisements
• New tools or icons suddenly appear in your Internet browser or the settings for your homepage change
• Your computer crashes or freezes more frequently

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Treatment

Since spyware programs are practically invisible and can attack at any time, we recommend that you install anti-spyware software on your computer and enable the automatic update and clean-up features to ensure that your workstation remains spyware-free at all times.

For more information about anti-spyware products, see our smart practices section.

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