What is Spyware?

What is really Spyware? Spyware is a computer software that is installed surrepitiously on a personal computer to intercept or take partial control over the user's interaction with the computer, without the users informed consent.

Spyware are often programs that are hiding embedded in other programs. These are often free, and promise any useful function. But the thing the user don't know is that the program secretly collect information and change the contents of the computer in any way. An example might be that all of a sudden, even the home page of your browser has been exchanged, and it can be transferred to pages that are not chosen to visit or advertisements popping up where you don't expect it. Sometimes, even some so-called "tracking cookies" interpreted as spyware, then they can keep track of your surfing habits. There are now anti-spyware programs that operates in a similar way as anti-virus software firm that specialises in just spyware.

If you notice that your computer is slower and more processes are running, you might be infected with spyware.
Your next move is to get rid of it.