What is spyware, adware, scumware?

Basically in an attempt to make software cheaper or free the makers have slotted ads in. This works nicely when they are nice and fuzzy firms like Opera but the problem comes in where people start trying to squeeze an extra cent out of things and start piling on increasingly intrusive 'extras' and these can linger on even after you've uninstalled the main piece of software.

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Relevant links:

What is spyware?

The Trouble With Spyware & Advertising-Supported Software
Adware, Spyware and other unwanted "malware" - and how to remove them

OptOut

Adware, Badware & Spyware Profiles

SpyChecker - a database of spyware so you can check before you install any software.

SpywareInfo - another resource to help you identify spyware and related problems.

Spyware Watch - and another similar site.

Google directory

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Relevant FAQs:

Can you recommend spyware removal software?

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Emperor

(Edited by: Tyberius Prime on Wed 11-Jun-2003)