1.5  Signs of Spyware infection

Spyware does leave some clues behind. In fact, that might be why you’re reading this book! The following is a list of some of the common characteristics of a spyware infection; it is by no means comprehensive and certainly doesn’t mean that if you experience none of these things you are spyware free. 

Remember, the name says it all. Spyware is meant to work inconspicuously on your PC without your knowledge. The problem is that there is so much spyware out there, you probably are infected with quite a few if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms.

You can tell if you computer is infected with spyware if:

·         Your PC is infested with pop-ups even when you are offline  and don’t have your web browser open;

·         Despite having popup protection, you still encounter pop-up ads when browsing online;

·         Your computer performance is sluggish and unresponsive;

·         You have strange toolbars and search bars in your web browser that you don't remember installing;

·         Your browser’s home page has changed and you can't change it back;

·         Your search results are strange and full of ads;

·         Strange icons appear on your desktop;

·         Sites you have never visited or heard of have been added to your favorites;

·         Programs you don’t remember installing are located in your Add/Remove Programs control panel;

·         Your firewall alerts you to an unknown program trying to access the Internet or the firewall indicator is turned off;

·         AdAware or Spybot S&D opens and closes for a few seconds, then goes away without scanning;

·         You get returned emails from strangers.

If you notice any of these things happening with your computer, then you are probably infected with spyware and you should take steps immediately to begin diagnosing and removing the infections.

<< Chapter 1.4 - Difference Between Spyware and Adware | Chapter 2 - How Spyware Infects Your Computer >>