Spyware? Adware?
A few months after investing in a brand new laptop you notice that is significantly slower than when you originally purchased it, yet it seems to be otherwise running just fine. After a quick check of the hardware, you realize that the problems are most likely caused by programs you have downloaded – yes, you are likely the victim of Adware or Spyware programs that can harvest your personal data and use up valuable system resources.
The first step to getting your system back up to full speed is to make sure you fully understand the difference between adware and spyware, so that you can identify and prevent infiltration in the future. Taking protective steps in both your online behavior and investing in preventative monitoring software can get your machine back to full performance in no time.
Understanding Adware
Adware, the shortened form for advertiser supported software, most commonly takes the form of free downloadable software. In return for the free download, users are shown targeted advertising, which can often be intrusive for the user. With integrated advertising, users’ systems often become slow, as bandwidth and local memory resources are taken up to delivery and target advertising to the user. Ad delivery forms may occur in pop-ups, toolbars or software-based ads; other forms of adware merely distribute user data to 3rd party servers for web-based ad targeting.
There are several programs, often packaged with complete computer security solutions, which work to detect and remove adware from a users system. Some of the most common programs include Ad-Aware and Kaspersky anti-virus (more antispyware programs). Computer security experts continue to improve prevention of Adware within web browsers, as well as providing consumers with information to protect their resources.
Avoiding Spyware
Spyware is a sub-set of Adware explicitly designed to collect and distribute private information from a host computer. Various forms of spyware are designed to collect personal information which can then be re-sold to advertisers. The Federal Trade Commission has taken steps to protect consumer privacy, requiring companies to disclose how they collect and use private information.
Often times, spyware takes the form of malicious tracking cookies, which are designed to track a users’ behavior online. Additionally, users may download programs which have embedded tracking software which then can violate personal privacy for commercial gain. Consumers are well advised to take steps to protect their computer to eliminate information distribution, identity theft and to secure their privacy online.