What is Spyware?

Spyware is a category of software that monitors your computer and Internet activities, often without first obtaining your full knowledge or consent. There are many degrees of Spyware, ranging from covert, invisible software that is installed on a computer by anyone wishing to spy on someone else, to the remotely-installed Spyware, which may be installed along with freeware or music sharing software. Most spyware can be blocked from communicating with its “home” using spyware blockers and firewall software.