February 5th - 2006

Spyware: Are you being watched?

Hidden programs may be running on your computer that track and communicate your online activities without your knowledge or consent.

Hidden programs may be running on your computer that track and communicate your online activities without your knowledge or consent. Generally referred to as spyware, some of these programs can actually log every keystroke you make and transmit the information back to an unauthorized user.

Adware is almost as unscrupulous. It can record your surfing habits, display annoying pop-up windows, or change your homepage without your consent. Both spyware and adware drag down your computer's performance.

Spyware and adware normally find their way onto your computer when you install software from disks or download free programs. And while these foreign programs easily imbed themselves onto your PC, they can be far more difficult to locate and remove. Whenever you are installing something on your computer, make sure you carefully read all disclosures, including the license agreement and privacy statement. Sometimes the inclusion of unwanted software in a given software installation is documented, but it may appear at the end of a license agreement or privacy statement.

How to spot spyware problems
You may have spyware or other unwanted software on your computer if:

  • You see pop-up advertisements even when you're not on the Web.
  • The page your Web browser first opens to (your home page) or your browser search settings have changed without your knowledge.
  • You notice a new toolbar in your browser that you didn't want, and find it difficult to get rid of.
  • Your computer takes longer than usual to complete certain tasks.
  • You experience a sudden rise in computer crashes.

Many kinds of unwanted software, including spyware, are designed to be difficult to remove. If you try to uninstall this software like any other program, you might find that the program reappears as soon as you restart your computer. If you're having trouble uninstalling unwanted software, you may need to download a tool to do the job for you. Several companies offer free and low-cost software that will check your computer for spyware and other unwanted software and help you remove it. Some Internet service providers (ISPs) also include anti-spyware software in their service packages. Check with your ISP to see if they can recommend or provide a tool.

A good anti-spyware tool will scan your computer and help you remove the most common spyware and identify and remove most common unwanted adware programs as well. However, before you download and install a free anti-spyware tool off the Internet, be sure you can trust the source. Unfortunately, makers of spyware and other unwanted software often disguise their programs as anti-spyware tools. Also, keep in mind that removing unwanted software with these tools may mean you will no longer be able to use a free program that came with the spyware.

The Internet is a great resource for information, free downloads and is fast becoming a valuable business tool. But it’s also a source of potential dangers. The key is for you (or someone who uses your computer) to fully understand what the software will do before you agree to install it on your computer.

For more information about spyware and adware removal, visit Microsoft’s security web site at www.microsoft.com/security or contact your Internet service provider.

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For more information contact

Ontario Real Estate Association

Jean-Adrien Delicano

Senior Manager, Media Relations

JeanAdrienD@orea.com

416-445-9910 ext. 246

Ontario Real Estate Association
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