Spyware includes the following behavior that is illegal under existing law - Section 5 of the FTC Act, 15 U.S.C.§45 - as an unfair or deceptive act or practice.
Gathering
information from a user's computer without knowledge OR consent;
Reporting
the information to the creator of the software or to one or more third
parties;
Is installed
on a user's computer without having given adequate notice to the user;
Providing the user with little or no control over removing the software.
Changes
system settings.
Installs
unauthorized dialers.
Installs
keyloggers.
Collects
and reports user's personal information to the developer of the software
or to one or more third parties.
Uses computer
processing capacity without permission.
Delivers spam or ads without user's notice and consent.
Adware is programming installed on a user's computer that typically takes the form of Pop-up ads displayed while the user is surfing. Adware is most effective when guided by Spyware, which monitors the user's surfing and then delivers ads that pertain to the type of sites visited. For example, if a user were looking for mortgage rates, targeted ads from mortgage brokers, realtors or lenders might be delivered.
From malicious software, Malware is designed specifically to interfere with, damage or otherwise disrupt a system. Adware and Spyware are often classified under the rubric of Malware. Malware severity runs the gamut from the mere nuisance, such as unsolicited pop-up ads, to dangerous parasites that can bring a system to a halt. These dangerous applications include homepage hijacks,Trojans and keyloggers.
"FREE"
games, music, graphics, toolbars and/or applications are where Spyware
and other threats are generally hidden.
Read privacy policies as well as EULAs (End User License Agreements). If you cannot find these documents DO NOT DOWNLOAD THE SOFTWARE!