Spyware Information

EWOL has created this page to provide you with information and resources to assist you in protecting your computer from spyware and other deceptive programs.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT SPYWARE?

What is Spyware?

Spyware is a growing problem that threatens the stability and performance of your PC. Even more alarming, spyware can threaten your privacy. Spyware is software that collects personal information from you without your permission. Spyware comes in various forms. The most common are adware, system monitors, and trojan horses.

The information spyware collects can range from all the Web sites you visit to more sensitive information like usernames and passwords. Typically, spyware arrives bundled with freeware or shareware, through e-mail or instant messages, or by someone with access to a user's computer. Once on a hard drive, it begins reporting the next time the user goes online. Unlike most software applications, spyware is difficult to detect and can be difficult to remove. If you download software that claims to be free such as file-sharing programs, games and other software programs from unknown sources it is extremely likely that you have spyware running on your system. Because some spyware programs can leave you vulnerable to personal profiling, data corruption, and even identity theft, it is very important to know how to detect it and how to get rid of it.


Top of Page

Symptoms of Spyware

You may experience any one or more of the following symptoms if spyware is present on your computer:

  • When you start your computer, or when your computer has been idle for many minutes, your Internet browser opens to display Web site advertisements.
  • When you use your browser to view Web sites, other browser windows open to display Web site advertisements.
  • Your Web browser's home page unexpectedly changes.
  • Web pages are unexpectedly added to your Favorites folder.
  • New toolbars are unexpectedly added to your Web browser.
  • You cannot start a program.
  • When you click a link in a program, the link does not work.
  • Your Web browser suddenly closes or stops responding.
  • It takes a much longer time to start or to resume your computer.
  • Components of Windows or other programs no longer work.
  • System instability, crashes or other strange behavior.


Top of Page

Detection and Removal Tools

Several companies offer software that will check your computer for unwanted software. These tools may help you determine if you have unwanted software installed and can help you remove it. Start by running a free online scan provided by EWOL in partnership with Pest Patrol. If the scan finds spyware installed on your system, the following programs can help you remove it:

Note: Be sure to keep your detection and removal tool up to date. Many manufacturers offer an option to check for updates automatically when you go online.


Top of Page

Frequently Asked Questions about Spyware

Top of Page

PROTECTING YOUR SYSTEM


Keeping Computer Systems Current

It is very important for Windows users to keep their computer systems up-to-date by checking for Microsoft critical updates and security patches on a regular basis. Simply visit the following link and download the recommended updates for your operating system:


Top of Page

EWOL AntiVirus Protection Service

EWOL is offering AntiVirus Protection for your EWOL email account for a price of only $9.95 per year.


Top of Page

Virus Protection Information

We recommend that you install virus protection software and update your virus definitions on a regular basis. Some common vendors are:


Top of Page

© Copyright 2006 ewol.com.   All Rights Reserved.

Contact the Webmaster about problems or suggestions.

EWOL AntiVirus Protection ServiceVirus Protection ProgramsKeeping Computer Systems CurrentSpyware FAQSpyware Detection and Removal ToolsWhat are the Symptoms of being infected by Spyware?What is Spyware?