Spyware Removal F.A.Q.

What is spyware?

According to Wikipedia, the difinition of spyware is computer software that is installed on a user's computer without their knowledge or consent, that is designed to intercept or take partial control over the user's interaction with the computer.

What will spyware do to my comptuer?

Spyware can cause a number of issues with your computer, including slow it down tremendously, take control of your browser's home page (browser hijack), change configuration settings, bombard user's with popups, redirect Internet activity, and can even install additional malicious software.

Is my personal information at risk because of a spyware infection?

Absolutely.  Spyware has the ability to monitor and collect all types of information from a computer, including surfing habits, web sites that have been visited, and even passwords to personal websites and it can send all of this information to a remote computer of the spyware author's choice - which could turn allow the author to get his hands on your bank or credit card information or ultimately steal your identity.

How do I know if I have a Spyware Infection?

There is good chance you have spyware if you have the following symptoms:

- Slow computer
- A large amount of popups
- Extra icons on your desktop that you didn't put there
- Your internet browser's homepage has been changed
- You are receiving fake "security alerts"

While these are only some of the symptoms you may see, the only true method to determine if you have a spyware infection is to scan your computer using legitimate antispyware software.

Click below to download Spyware Doctor and scan your computer for spyware (scan is free, removal requires you to purchase a licensed version)

How can I remove spyware completely from my computer?

Some spyware infections can be removed manually if you have technical experience, however it is our recommendation that you invest in legitimate antispyware software such as Spyware Doctor.

How can I prevent spyware from infecting my computer in the first place?

There are number of different ways you can increase the level of protection you have against spyware:

1.  Use proven and legitimate antispyware software that includes real time protection, such as Spyware Doctor

2.  If you are using Windows XP or later, ensure your Firewall is turned on

3.  Never run files directly from any website, always save them first.  This allows your antispyware software to scan the files before you run them.

4.  Avoid questionable websites such as ones that include pornography, gambling, or pharmaceuticals

5.  Avoid using any P2P (peer to peer) software such as Limewire and Kazaa

6.  Avoid shareware and freeware unless you are certain it is from a legitimate and trustworthy source

7.  Use a web browser such as Firefox instead of Internet Explorer

8.  Keep your computer up to date with any security patches (Windows Updates for example)