How do I determine whether I have Spyware on my computer?
This article applies to:
Platform(s): Solaris SPARC, Solaris x86, Red Hat Linux, SUSE Linux, Windows 98, Windows ME, Windows 2000 (SP4+), Windows XP (SP1 SP2), Windows 2003, JDS
JRE version(s): 1.4.2_xx
Some users are worried that spyware will be installed on their computer when they download the Java Runtime Environment (JRE). This is not true.
Sun Microsystems does not bundle spyware software of any kind with downloads of the JRE or the Java 2 SDK. However, spyware infecting computers is a huge problem, and Sun wants to help you remove spyware from your computer system.
SYMPTOMS
Your browsing speed is slow.
Some strange file always wants to connect to a remote server, but your virus scanner doesn't stop the connection.
Your mailbox is filled with targeted spam, and some of these friendly advertisers even call you by name.
You have seen an installation window pop up that asks you to install Gator, FastFile, etc.
CAUSE
There are several ways in which adware/spyware can get installed without your knowledge:
By visiting some websites, a spyware/adware can get installed by clicking on a link.
When a peer-to-peer (P2P) or shared network application is installed, spyware/adware can be part of the installation package.
Some spyware programs attach themselves to your browser, and some are completely invisible.
SOLUTION
How to Remove Spyware
Using your favorite search engine, search for "spyware removal utility" as your search phrase. This search will help you locate many free spyware removal utilities, and help you control spyware on your computer.
What Spyware Removal Utilities Do
Spyware removal utilities check your computer for known spyware parasites, and allows you to remove these parasites safely without damaging other programs or files on your computer.
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