Spyware
Little (and not so little) parasite programs, running in the background and chewing up precious RAM and processor speed. Also known as Adware, these can range from very mild to extremely annoying. Most computers, even with good anti-virus software, have between 20 and 200 of these.
Removal
Download and install one (or more) of the following programs:
- Microsoft's AntiSpyware
- Spybot - Search & Destroy from Safer Networking (donationware);
- SpywareBlaster from Javacool Software (donationware);
- AdAware from LavaSoft (free*).
* - for non-commercial use.
The best is, of course, first.
Anti-Spyware
This is the best site for up-to-date information in the fight against spyware:
Spyware Warrior