How do I determine whether I have spyware on my computer?

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How do I determine whether I have spyware on my computer?

This article applies to:

Platform(s): Windows 7, Vista, Windows XP, Windows 2000

Some users may be worried that spyware will be installed on their computer when they download the Java software. This is not true. Oracle does not bundle spyware software of any kind with downloads of the Java. However, spyware infecting computers is a huge problem, and Oracle 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

You can refer to the Antispyware downloads website for spyware removal utilities, to ensure that the utility you pick is from a 'reputable' company.

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.