free spyware

What is spyware

Spyware is a type of malware that's hard to detect. It collects information about your surfing habits, browsing history, or personal information (such as credit card numbers), and often uses the Internet to pass this information along to third parties without knowing you. Keyloggers are a type of spyware that monitors your keystrokes.

Spyware
Where spyware comes from
Spyware is often bundled with other software or downloads on file-sharing sites (e.g., sites where you download free music or movies), or is installed when you open an email attachment. Because of the secretive nature of spyware, most people are not aware when spyware is on a computer that is unprotected by anti-spyware.

How to recognize spyware
New and / or unidentifiable icons may appear in the task bar at the bottom of your screen, while searches may result in you being redirected to a different search engine. Random error messages appear when you perform operations that previously worked fine. But the best way to identify if you have been infected is to use a spyware scanner, which will be included in any spyware removal software.

How to remove spyware
Antivirus software can find and remove any spyware on your computer, since these usually include anti-spyware protection as well as spyware removal tools. You can also check Programs and Features for items that do not belong on your computer.

How to prevent spyware
Use antivirus and anti-spyware software.
Ensure that your browser, operating system, and software have the latest updates and security patches.
Set your browser security and privacy levels higher.
Use extreme caution if you frequent file-sharing sites.
Do not click on pop-up ads.
Use anti-spyware to protect yourself
There is no better way to recognize, remove and prevent spyware than to use antivirus and anti-spyware software, the best of which is provided by Avast.

Why Avast?
Consistently rated "excellent" by industry experts
Trusted by 400 million people worldwide
It's the "Antivirus with the lowest impact on PC performance" (AV comparatives)
Best features - unbreakable password security, home network protection, browser cleaning and much more
All for FREE