"Spyware" is software operating on your computer that collects information about the user and then (usually) uploads this information to a server. Spyware can be contracted in a number of ways, but is most often contracted through "free" downloads such as games, music, screensavers or seemingly innocent freeware programs, and sometimes can come attached to an e-mail. It can also be downloaded by a virus on your computer called a 'downloader' or 'dropper'. Spyware programs may just track a user's internet browsing and shopping habits, sending the information back to a database for the purpose of gathering statistics for targeted marketing. However, most spyware is hardly ever that innocent. Many look for passwords, credit card information, e-mail addresses, etc.

Similar to our Anti-Virus software, our spyware control software has the ability to detect spyware by its characteristics, in addition to known definitions and signatures, making it more effective than many other applications on the market. Like viruses, new methods to track and monitor internet users is created daily, and it's difficult to analyze all and create a matching signature before it infects thousands of computers. Again, nothing is fool proof when it comes to viruses and spyware, but knowing you are using an effective defense reduces your risk of infection.

Remember, no matter how much protection software you have, infections are more likely if you visit sites offering "free" downloads of material that would normally cost money, or visit certain special interest or adult websites.

You are less likely to have issues with viruses or spyware if you follow these safe internet browsing habits:

• Do not use "peer-to-peer" (P2P) download services such as Limewire. This software acts as a 'middle man' and connects your computer directly to other computers to access downloads. If another person's computer is infected, now yours is too. A peer-to-peer connection can also give the other party direct access to the directories and files on your computer. Some users of peer-to-peer services intentionally falsify the downloads they have available, just for the purpose of establishing the peer-to-peer connection to spread an infection.
• Some download locations are fairly safe such as C-Net (download.com) or iTunes.
• There are sometimes infections attached to "free" game, software, music or video downloads.
• We've seen a number of infections come from downloading screen savers.
• Some websites may make legitimate freeware or shareware available for download, but they might unknowingly have infected the package themselves. It's always a good idea to scan a downloaded .zip, .rar or other 'package' file with your anti-virus software prior to decompressing it.
• Practicing safe internet usage is always the user's responsibility. If your children use the internet, use of a content filter is a good idea (as described in our section on content filtering). It may even keep some adults from infecting your computer as well!