Did you know that most major Web sites--some of them popular and respected Web sites--download unwanted spyware on your computer when you visit? At its most benign level, spyware is used by Web sites to track your browsing and purchasing habits. Taken a step further, spyware might even capture personally identifiable data and credit card information.
* SPYWARE IS NOT THE SAME AS A VIRUS
A misconception for many is that anti-virus software protects from these unwanted intrusions. But that's not
case. Just as a "virus" in real world is different from a "bacteria" or "parasite," same can be said of a virus in cyber- world. It's NOT same as spyware.
Anti-virus software protects against KNOWN computer virus attacks. A virus is best described as malicious programming code intended to replicate itself and in so doing render a user's computer system or network inoperable.
Spyware is something different. It's meant to stealthily co-exist with your computer's system and program files, tracking and reporting information through your Internet Explorer browser--usually without your knowledge. Like a parasite, spyware infects host with hooks into your computer's registry and system files--hooks that you most likely don't know about.
* TOUGH STUFF
At it's most insidious, spyware parasites can actually hijack or take over your Web browser--making it non-responsive to your commands, and forcing you to sites against your will.
Recovering from a spyware infection can sometimes be a daunting and frustrating task. But luckily there are resources available to help guard against getting infected by this silent menace.
