Is Your Computer Running Slow???
The Problem Could Be
Spyware, Cookies and Pop-Ups
| What is Spyware?
Spyware is any technology, such as
tracking software, that gathers information about a person or
organization without their knowledge. On the Internet, spyware is
programming that is planted in your computer to secretly gather
information about the web sites you visit and relay it to advertisers or other
interested parties. Spyware can get into a computer the same way a
virus can, or as the result of installing a new program. Data
collecting programs that are installed with the user's knowledge are
not, properly speaking, spyware, if the user fully understands what data
is being collected and with whom it is being shared.
However, spyware is often installed without the user's knowledge or consent. It can be installed along with programs such as Kazaa, or as the result of clicking "More Information" on a deceptive pop-up window. Usually, these programs will exist on your computer without your knowledge, and cause no problems. There are many cases though, where spyware can cause a lot of pop-up ads and even cause your computer to run slower and even lock up. Spyware has also been known to cause problems with your network settings, which can prevent you from accessing the internet properly. An excellent website for more information on spyware can be found at www.spywareinfo.com. What is a Cookie? A cookie is a well-known item that stores information about an Internet user on their own computer. The existence of cookies and their use is usually not hidden from users who can block access to the cookie. However, if a web site stores information about you in a cookie without your knowledge, the cookie could also be considered a form of spyware. For a really good, in-depth description of a cookie, please visit: www.cookiecentral.com/content.phtml?area=2&id=1 What is a Pop-Up? Pop-ups are those annoying advertisements that intrude on your Web surfing. According to PCWorld.com, pop-ups "...seem to be on the decline. But don't celebrate yet: New forms of advertising that may be just as annoying and even more intrusive are likely to replace them." There are many good programs on the Internet that you can be download for free to help clean spyware off your computer. For spyware removal, the programs that PNX recommend are eScan AntiVirus Toolkit, Spy Sweeper, CWShredder, Ad-Aware, and Spybot - Search & Destroy. The PNX preferred pop-up blocker is the Google Toolbar. These software programs, along with many others are available online from www.download.com or www.softpedia.com. For a faster download, the programs listed above are available for download directly from our PNX server, just click on the appropriate link at the bottom of this page. Please be advised: PNX does not offer free support for any of these programs. Support can be found at the software vendors websites. If you are unable to successfully download/install or run any of these programs, PNX will be happy to set them up on your computer in our store at our standard rate of $45/Hour.
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