Some software companies collect data on your actions, and use the data for marketing. That's OK if you know about it and agree to it, especially with your consent and in return for free services. However, some firms do it without your knowledge and without your permission.

While you install their main program they sneak a special "spyware" program on your machine. You don't know it's there while it secretly logs your actions and then sends the data back to the company. They then sell this data to telemarketers who use it for their marketing campaign (At its best: better offers for you. At its worst: "spam")

Several companies and sites are already recognized for installing spyware when you install their main programs. Some let you know, and some don't. Broderbund, KazAa, BonziBuddy, BearShare, Comet Cursor (sometimes installs just by visiting a site!), Creative Labs Soundblaster, Net2Phone, AOL Instant Messenger and LimeWire are just some of the companies and products that have installed spyware or adware in the past. Some of them still do.

I can't show you exactly how to fix it here. Each spyware is different, and some are difficult to remove. Anti-Virus programs can identify and remove a few of them, but not most.

But ... there are web sites that help you identify spyware on your machine, and often show you how to remove it. These links give more info on what spyware is, how to find it, and how to deal with it:

• ZDNet article on file sharing programs that might pose a security risk.
• CNET pages that explain spyware, point to lists of spyware and adware, and give links to programs such as Ad Aware that can find and get rid of spyware programs.
  • Also, CNET's tips on fighting ugly web tricks, such as pop-up ads.
  • And, CNET help on most computer topics, including virus issues.
• Counter Exploitation Organization. They may be a bit "extreme" for some of us, but they still have a good list of spyware "providers" as well as in-depth info on the problem.
• Ad Aware, a program that finds and removes spyware and adware.

Again, if you know of it and agree to it then that's OK. It can be part of a great deal. But if you don't want it you should be able to stop it.

After all, it's your machine!