Viruses and spam get all the attention, but there is another, less visible, threat to internet users that may already be lurking on your computer without your knowledge. "Spyware", as it is known, is software that sneaks on to your PC, tracks your online activities, and occasionally splashes pop-up advertisements across the screen. It is more than a nuisance: such software is, in effect, hijacking your PC, monitoring your internet use and unilaterally opening browser windows. Some spyware also harvests personal information, such as your e-mail address and loca-tion-or even your credit-card details.
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