Who's Spying On You?

Anti-spyware

While most spyware requires you to download or click something before it can be installed, some programs take advantage of security holes in the software on your computer.  If you’re a regular user of the Internet then spyware detection software is vital.

As new spyware programs are released, anti-spyware developers discover and evaluate them, making "signatures" or "definitions" which allow the software to detect and remove new threats. Just like computer viruses and spam, spyware will continue to change and evolve, so you need to check regularly for updates to your protection software. 

Anti-spyware programs can combat spyware in two ways:

• Real-time monitoring, which helps to prevent the installation of spyware
• Detection and removal, to remove spyware from an infected computer

Real-time protection from spyware works identically to real-time anti-virus protection: the software scans incoming files on access and blocks the activity of components known to represent spyware

Anti-virus programs do not detect most spyware because the programs do not have the characteristics of a virus; also, anti-virus software, firewalls and Internet pop-up blockers generally do not provide adequate protection from spyware once it's on your machine.

It is no longer safe to assume that because you have installed anti-virus software you are safe from network attacks and prying eyes.