What is spyware?

Spyware is software that collects personal information about users without their consent. Synonyms for spyware include adware and malware. Spyware can record your private information in a few different ways: logging keystrokes, recording browsing history, and prying into documents on your hard disk. Spyware creators use this information to target appropriate advertisements or, more maliciously, they use passwords and credit card numbers for identity theft. Some indications that your computer may be infected are: slow computer performance, unsolicited email, new desktop shortcuts, a change in your homepage default and the ever-annoying pop up ads.