Spyware and Adware are increasingly common and closely related forms of malicious software.
Spyware refers to software that transmits personal information such as browsing habits without proper authorization. The functions of most advertising software (adware) can be classified as spyware, because they transmit information back to advertisers for marketing purposes.
Adware refers to parasitic marketing software, which may be bundled with other seemingly desirable software, distributed by masquerading as a browser plugin, or more disturbingly, distributed via security holes in a user's browser.
Beyond being an invasion of privacy and an annoyance to many users, spyware and adware programs are often poorly written, exposing victims to browser and operating system instability and insecurity, and often burrow deeply into critical operating system components making their removal a dangerous time consuming process.
Detailed descriptions of various spyware, adware, and other parasitic software. Includes instructions for removing many common and not-so-common spyware and adware programs. http://www.cexx.org/adware.htm
Several articles about how to find remove and prevent spyware. Includes an optimization tutorial as part of the clean up process. http://spyware-removal.digitalcrunch.com
Information on harmful programs is provided with instructions on how to remove them from the computer and a comprehensive list of malicious cookies. http://www.geocities.com/spywarekilla/
Blog of spyware news developments, testing results for anti-spyware products, details of rogue products and forums providing advice and support for people with spyware infections. http://spywarewarrior.com/
Doctoral student involved in spyware related research and investigations into associated unethical practices. Includes research papers, news, biography and presentations given. http://www.benedelman.org/
Information on how to prevent infection, lists of reputable and rogue products, database of known parasites and glossary of terms. http://www.doxdesk.com/
Forums offering assistance on spyware removal. Also offer a weekly newsletter, a chat room and an online scan provided by XBlock. http://www.spywareinfo.com/
Information on preventative measures, details of the malware community good guys and bad guys, and of specific spyware threats. Includes help forums. http://temerc.com/
A website dedicated to helping users learn about computers and how to fix spyware, adware, viruses, trojans or any other issues you may have. http://www.pctorium.com
Information and resources regarding spyware and how to remove it. Get up-to-date information and removal instructions regarding the latest spyware and adware threats. http://www.re-quest.net/computers/spyware/index.htm
This is a collection of information and tools to help novice computer users fix problems associated with Spyware, Adware, and other problems. http://people.aero.und.edu/%7eewondras/
