Simply speaking, spyware consists of hidden programs running on your computer. You may have unknowingly installed spyware when you downloaded programs from the internet or installed software from disks for tasks such as music or video file-sharing, viewing digital video, etc.
Spyware frequently serves advertisements, records your surfing habits, and can even change your system settings. Some of the more malicious spyware programs monitor your surfing habits, and report your online activities back to the people that built it. There are even versions that record your exact keystrokes - giving snoopers easy access to your passwords and other sensitive information.
Combating spyware
Unfortunately, spyware programs are easy to install but often difficult to remove without downloading specialised anti-spyware programs. These anti-spyware programs are available from different third-party companies - some of them free, some available for a small charge. Most are available as a download so you can check your system right now for malicious and annoying spyware. More about spyware options
Please note: some spyware and/or adware may be included as part of software that you have licensed from a third party pursuant to a separate licence agreement. This separate licence agreement may require that you install and run the spyware or adware in order to receive the other software. BT Internet Services and Yahoo! Inc. strongly recommend that you review all software licences to which you have agreed. BT Internet Services and Yahoo! Inc. are not responsible for any breach caused by your removal of required spyware or adware.
