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 Tactics—In About 10 Minutes

  • Ban All Spies—In 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 ...

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