What is spyware or adware, and how can I remove it?
Spyware is Internet jargon for any data collection program that secretly gathers information about you and relays it to advertisers and other interested parties. Adware usually displays banners or unwanted pop-up windows. In many cases, such unwanted programs do both functions. You can unknowingly install spyware when you install new software, most commonly freeware or shareware P2P (peer-to-peer) file-sharing programs. Many of these programs are intended to track your Internet browsing habits, such as frequented sites and favorite downloads, and then provide advertising companies with marketing data. Some spyware programs can adversely affect your computer’s performance, and may prevent you from accessing secure services at Indiana University, including Oncourse CL, IU Webmail, CAS, and OneStart.
