Spy Sweeper AntiSpyware
by WebRoot, Inc.
Spyware is programming capable of monitoring your computer use (where you browse on the web, what programs and data files you access, or even your e-mail activity). In some cases, it records your keystrokes and can invariably record your passwords. Spyware often includes a mechanism for transferring accumulated data to another computer, usually without your knowledge. In most cases, you will not know that spyware has been installed. In the more benign cases, spyware accumulates marketing data for a vendor and/or triggers commercial ads that display in pop-up windows. In more extreme cases, spyware can result in stolen passwords and identity theft.
Spyware can be installed as part of a desirable program, for example a game downloaded from a web site. In such cases, the spyware functions may actually be detailed in the end user license agreement (EULA) for the program. However, because most people do not read the fine print of these agreements, they remain unaware of the spyware. Spyware can also be downloaded just by surfing the web using a browser with a known and unpatched flaw. Once a spyware program gets installed on your system, it may access the network and upload log files of its monitored events to a home site (often outside of the United States). It may also download and install additional data (display ads, for instance) and programs, effectively taking control of your computer.
Just as there are anti-virus programs to combat computer viruses and worms, companies have developed antispyware and antiadware programs. Unfortunately, these programs vary widely in quality. Some "antispyware" programs detect and remove some programs while installing their own ad-ware programs. In effect, they remove their competitor's software so that they can take control of the system for their own purposes!
In an effort to combat spyware, Vanderbilt has negotiated an agreement with WebRoot Software, Inc., one of the highest rated antispyware companies. Their Spy Sweeper antispyware program is now available to the Vanderbilt community at no cost to end users. Any Vanderbilt user with an active VUnetID and password can download Spy Sweeper for use on Windows-based University and personal (including home) systems.
System Requirements: Windows 98 SE, Me, 2000, or XP (Home, Pro, or MCE) running on at least a 300 Mhz processor with 128 MB RAM and 25 MB of available hard disk space. The program is not currently available for Macintosh or any other operating systems.
To install, please visit the Downloads page.
Support, including extensive Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for the Spy Sweeper program, is provided on WebRoot’s support web site.
Known Issues- IE 7 Beta
There is a known conflict that has been reported by IE 7 Beta testers that prevents it from properly installing without first uninstalling any antispyware software, including Spy Sweeper. Accordingly, if you currently have Spy Sweeper or any such antispyware software installed, do the following:
- Uninstall Spy Sweeper or any other antispyware software
- Install IE 7
- Reinstall Spy Sweeper or any other antispyware software
