Spyware

This can include, but is not limited to: your web browsing behavior, your confidential data, and your personal information. This information is subsequently used to build a profile of the computer’s user so he or she can be targeted more effectively with spam and phishing messages.

Much of the spyware will promote itself as browser toolbars or add-ons, such as coupon printers, Internet accelerators, download managers, and so on. Installing such software will slow down your computer instead of speeding it up, disclose personal information, and may result in more spam or phishing messages being sent to your email address. A more obvious sign of spyware, aka adware, are pop-ups that occur even when you don’t have an Internet browser open. Browser cookie files can also be spy-ware related.

Please use restraint when installing additional software on your Adelphi-owned computer—we also recommend the same protocol for your personal computer. When you do decide to install software, make sure that it is properly licensed.

To prevent trouble, follow these guidelines:

• Always apply Windows Updates when prompted via the Windows system tray (bottom-right of your screen). For Macs, a Software Update window will prompt you when new updates are available for applications you have installed.
• Once a week, check if your antivirus is up-to-date. You can do this by right-clicking on the Symantec icon in the system tray and checking the date. If your virus definitions are more than a week old, please contact the IT Help Desk for assistance.
• Be Careful: AdAware and similar products can remove files you need or cause undesired results.
• Adelphi IT will never ask you for personal information. If you receive email asking for your username and password, do not respond: notify us, and then delete the email immediately.

If you feel that your computer has contracted spyware, please contact the IT Help Desk. Find anti-spyware software information at our Software Downloads page.