Spyware is technology that aids in gathering information about a person or organization without their knowledge. On the Internet, spyware is programming that is put in someone's computer to secretly gather information about the user and relay personal information to advertisers or other interested parties. Spyware can reside in a computer as a software virus or can be the result of installing a new program.

Spyware is a huge problem for those concerned about privacy. Spyware can also have other consequences for computer users such as sluggish computer performance, unwanted ads, and excessive pop-up windows. If your computer is suddenly performing poorly, chances are that spyware is to blame.

There are many products, both commercial and freeware, that are designed to detect and remove spyware. Please see Download.com’s Spyware Center for a detailed listing of such products and additional information on fighting the spyware problem.

Please note that IT does not recommend one product over another and does not have licensed copies available for students, faculty, or staff. This list is for informational purposes only.