SPYWARE FAQ
Disclaimer:
Please note that this information is given for the sole purpose of educating users in the detection and removal of unwanted spyware from their personal computer. Any actions you take will be at your own risk. Greenville Tech cannot be held responsible for any damage caused.
WHAT IS SPYWARE/ADWARE?
Spyware is any software that is loaded on your machine - usually without your knowledge - that is used to track your actions online. These programs are almost never used to inflict harm on your machine and are not considered to be a virus. They are however a real nuisance. These programs are capable of doing anything from installing other software on your machine, to simply bombarding you with countless pop-up ads while you surf the web. Spyware may also affect your ability to access webCT .
WHERE DOES SPYWARE COME FROM?
Spyware usually comes bundled with some other piece of software you are installing on your machine. Sometimes, depending on the integrity of the company, you will be given a choice as to whether or not you want the spyware to be loaded. However, many companies don’t inform you of the spyware and will not allow their product to be used without the presence of the spyware on your machine. If you delete the spyware by these companies, the program you originally installed may stop working.
You can also get spyware just by visiting a webpage or from downloading files. These files are often not detected by your virus protection software, since spyware is not considered to be a virus.
DO I HAVE SPYWARE?
If you surf the internet a lot or you notice any of the following symptoms, you may have spyware on your computer:
- Slower browser speed
- A significant increase in pop-up ads
- You begin to receive targeted e-mails, many of which know you by name
- You are being re-directed to sites you do not want to go to
- Your home page has suddenly changed and you cant change it back
HOW DOES SPYWARE AFFECT WEBCT?
Not all spyware will have an affect on webCT. However, there are some spyware/adware programs that will prevent you from accessing your webCT course. If you have ever tried to log into webCT and were re-directed to another web site (i.e. perfectnav.com), that is a good indication that you have spyware on your machine. If you are experiencing problems logging into webCT, you may want to use another computer to access your courses until you have this problem resolved. Greenville Tech has many open computer labs you may use, or you may be able to go to a local library or a friend’s house.
HOW DO I GET RID OF SPYWARE?
- Perform a search online for spyware removal programs – there are many free programs as well as packages that you can purchase at most major retail stores.
- Make sure to pick a program that you trust, don’t download anything unless you are sure it is safe
- If after you run the spyware removal program, you still can’t get the spyware to go away, you will need to contact your computer’s manufacturer for further instructions
