Spyware is a relatively new kind of threat that common anti-virus applications do not yet cover.

If you see new toolbars in your Internet Explorer that you didn't intentionally install, if your browser crashes, or if your browser start page has changed without your knowing, you most probably have spyware.

But even if you don't see anything, you may be infected, because more and more spyware is emerging that is silently tracking your surfing behavior to create a marketing profile of you that will be sold to advertisement companies. You may not have heard much about Spyware but if you've used the Internet lately, Spyware companies may know a lot about you!

There are many software programs that may contain code or components that allow the developers of these applications and tools to actually collect and disseminate information about those using them.  Developers can track your surfing habits, abuse your Internet connection by sending this data to a third party, profile your shopping preferences, hijack your browser start page or pages, alter important system files, and can do this without your knowledge or permission.

The security and privacy implications of these exploits should be quite obvious and undesirable on any system or network!  Keeping your computer or network free of these compromising and intrusive threats to your privacy is important.

Spyware software can detect and remove spyware of different kinds from your computer by comprehensively scanning your memory, registry, hard, removable and optical drives for known data mining, aggressive advertising, and tracking components, it will provide the user with the confidence to surf the Internet knowing that their privacy will remain intact. AdAware 6 Plus w AdAware 6 Professional

Not all Spyware removal programs are good. While many will actually remove Spyware they also may place their own spyware on the system. Exercise caution in buying or using just any Spyware program. There are a few reliable good programs available. AdAware 6 Plus is one that is growing in popularity and actually removes many threats. PREVENTION is the key! Block Spyware BEFORE it infects your computer. There are a few basic things that can be done to make your computer more resistant to known and unknown Spyware.

(1) Adjust Internet Explorer browser settings to a higher level of security How Safe Are You On The Internet?

(2) Enable The Window XP Firewall and/or (strongly recommended) install a software firewall product. If you have the money, buy a hardware firewall such as WatchGuard. A firewall will block threats and make surfing the Internet much safer giving you more security and control over your personal information. There are a few FREE firewall products available but the paid editions have much better features.

(3) Regularly delete TEMPORARY files. For Windows XP, there are two locations. (A) c:\windows or c:\winnt AND under each user account C:\Documents and Settings\Owner\Local Settings\Temp (this is hidden by default).