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Spy Sweeper FAQ


What is spyware?

Anyone who uses a computer is susceptible to spyware infection. In fact, nine out of 10 Internet-connected PCs are infected with spyware, adware and other unwanted programs that can:

  • Open your PC to identity theft
  • Expose your personal information and private accounts
  • Corrupt your hard drive
  • Share your passwords and user names

Spyware describes any application that may track your online or offline PC activity. It can save or transmit those findings to third parties. Spyware is stealthy and often attaches itself to your computer without your knowledge – or appropriate consent. Many nefarious spyware programs can record keystrokes to steal your social security number, bank account information and credit card numbers, or hijack your modem to dial expensive, pornographic phone numbers.

Adware is a different type of program that lets companies track your online activities and tailor pop-up ads based on your choices.

What are the symptoms of spyware?

If you use the Internet, it’s very likely some form of spyware or adware is already at work on your PC. Your computer may be infected if you recognize any of these symptoms:

  • Sluggish PC performance
  • An increase in pop-up ads
  • Mysterious new toolbars you can’t delete
  • Unexplained changes to homepage settings
  • Puzzling search results
  • Frequent computer crashes

How do spyware and adware find me?

Through seemingly harmless tasks spyware or adware may attach itself to your computer. These unwanted programs may start watching your actions right away or the programs may wait, triggering covert activities later. Even if you’re careful you can pick up adware and spyware through normal Web activities like:

  • Sharing music, files or photos with other users
  • Visiting a media-supported Web site
  • Opening spam e-mail or an e-mail attachment
  • Downloading free games, toolbars, media players and other system utilities
  • Installing mainstream software applications without fully reading license agreements

Do I have to manually scan my computer with Spy Sweeper to find and delete spyware?

No. Once installed, Spy Sweeper continually protects your system from spyware. You can manually sweep your computer at anytime by maximizing Spy Sweeper, choosing Sweep Now and clicking Start

How do I update Spy Sweeper's definitions files?

Spy Sweeper automatically updates itself as needed when connected to the internet. You can manually update the application and/or the definitions by choosing Options and clicking either Update Program or Update Definitions.

Does Spy Sweeper automatically delete any spyware that it finds?

Spy Sweeper quarantines anything suspicious that it finds. You can delete files from the quarantine manually, by choosing Quarantined, clicking Select All, and clicking Delete Selected.

What can I do to prevent spyware infection?

When you arm yourself with information and resources, you become wiser and more knowledgeable about spyware and less vulnerable to its tactics. There are a few simple things you can do right away to help prevent further infection:

  • Update your operating system regularly
  • Increase your browser security settings
  • Only download software from sites you trust
  • Use anti-virus protection and a software firewall
  • Get anti-spyware software protection

Where can I get more help with Spy Sweeper?

Maximize Spy Sweeper and choose Help. The online help file explains most Spy Sweeper features in detail.