Cyber-Safety Basics: Avoid Spyware/Adware

Why should you avoid spyware and adware? Because:

Spyware can monitor your web habits and transmit information without your knowledge.
Adware can display ads on your computer while the program is running.
Spyware and adware programs take up memory and can slow down your computer or cause other problems.

To avoid spyware and adware:

Closely read user agreements for free programs before clicking, "I accept". Watch for allusions to spyware and adware in user agreements.
Regularly scan your computer with anti-spyware and anti-adware programs.
Download Spybot Search & Destroy
Download Ad-Aware
Download Windows Defender