Chapter 2. Spyware: Overrun by Advertisers, Hijackers, and Opportunists

In this chapter

• What Is Spyware?

• Bad Things Spyware Does

• How Spyware Sneaks onto Your Computer

• Specialty Spies: Adware, Snoopware, Hijackers, and More

• You Probably Have Spyware on Your Computer Now

• Cookies! Can Baked Goods Spy on You?

• Counterspy TacticsIn About 10 Minutes

• Ban All SpiesIn an Afternoon

• I'm Infected! How to Remove Spyware

Spyware and adware, its rude sister, are two of the most prolific threats to the privacy and the security of your computer today. This chapter explains what they are, how they spy on you, and what methods they use to sneak onto your computer. It also covers the many flavors of spyware and a snoop profile for each type. Of course, no chapter on spyware would be complete without tips on how to remove infections and defend against future threats. By the end of the chapter you will have a license to kill (spyware, that is). Just don't drop your gun in your breakfast milk, okay?