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What is Spyware?
Question:

What is Spyware? How do I know if my computer is infected?
Answer:

Spyware is computer software that is installed on your computer, usually without your knowledge, that secretly gathers information about you and your computing habits, and sends that information to advertisers and other interested parties. There are many ways you can get spyware. Many "free" file sharing programs, for example, are bundled with spyware apps.

If any of these situations apply to you, you may be infected with Spyware:

  • Your Internet Homepage has unexpectedly changed
  • You are being flooded with pop-up ads
  • Your computer is running slower than usual
  • Your WebCT Course page is garbled, or keeps asking you to login again
  • Your browser has additional toolbars or other components that you don't recall downloading

Spyware Removal Tools

Okanagan College Support Services has tested and recommends the following tools for detecting and removing spyware from your computer.

Categories: IT Services
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