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Spyware In the past few weeks I have seen an explosion of computers coming in to the shop loaded with spyware. One computer had over 1200 objects (spyware) imbedded in the operating system. Definitions vary, but I define spyware as software or any use of software that monitors, tracks, or reports any activities on a computer to an outside source without the user's consent. While this broad statement includes browser cookies, you can control cookies on a per-computer basis using either Netscape or Internet Explorer. But with spyware programs installed with other software, launched when you start Windows, or included with Internet Explorer extensions, you don't have a choice. Spyware is growing more prevalent, and the lack of user consent is an issue. Users often unwittingly accept spyware when installing other software that includes programs or features designed specifically to track online activity. The majority of spyware victims are people who click accept for a software license agreement without reading the fine print. This acceptance is a lousy defense of the use of spyware by companies, but it's nonetheless a defense. Click-through licensing agreements notwithstanding, I think spyware is a horrible business practice. It's a sad fact that spyware--and other methods used to track and monitor online behavior are unfortunate side effects of the unregulated Internet. The paradox is that the unregulated nature of the Internet is precisely its greatest strength. Of course, I would never defend the practices of companies that bundle spyware or engage in unauthorized monitoring practices on the Internet. Spyware is a problem--there's no doubt about it. It's an invasion of privacy, and it poses security risks. Two of the programs I recommend are Lavasoft's Ad-aware-6 and program called SpyBot Search & Destroy. Both can be found at http://download.com along with many other different programs to remove spyware from your computer. If anyone has any questions or if I can help you in any way you can reach me at support@qualitycomputersfl.com
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