Anti-spyware Software
Summary : Aims of this section.
To gain an awareness of spyware, particularly in relation to File-sharing and
the use of Kazaa lite.
Summary recommendation. Use some form of anti-spyware program every few
months.
Well, the very notion of 'spying' implies being monitored without ones
consent.
Whenever you install a piece of software, you are required to read and agree to
the terms/conditions of the endless standard contract. Fact is, most people
don't even read them (does anyone ? ). Sometimes contained deep in the standard
text, there are notes about having information about your internet habits etc, being taken
and used for various 'purposes'.
What programs are notorious for spyware ?
-Realplayer
-Kazaa ( NOT Kazaa lite though which is stripped of all nasty junk)
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Realplayer, now known as 'Real ONE' comes bloated with
a variety of junk sub-programs that monitor
what you download and what websites you visit for instance. This info is of
course sold to advertising companies who then use it to target specific people
with very specific adverts.
There are a fair amount of anti-spyware programs available online. Some do
charge for specialist versions of software. However, at present i would suggest getting hold
of Lavasoft's Ad-Aware program. This program is periodically updated- so, it can
be useful to check their site for updates every once in a while - or keep in
touch with this site.
So, try out ad-aware. I do have a summary page for how to use it.
Net links
If you would like to suggest a program that removes spyware, then please let me
know in the Forum - i
am always looking for useful new programs.
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Ad-aware: Arguably the best anti-spyware program available online |
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Spybot, an interesting site, with many links to other useful
anti-spying websites. |
Last updated : 08/10/04
