Programs to Avoid Downloading--Spyware and Adware
Here are some examples of software that you should avoid downloading because they will either infest your system with spyware or adware, change your system settings without your explicit permission, or possibly cause you problems browsing the Internet.
Go!Zilla –download manager
Beef and Broccoli—Chinese food screen saver
BonziBuddy—Purple Monkey that bothers you while your searching the web
GoHip—will add advertisements to all your emails
Comet Cursor--changes the look and feel of the mouse cursor
All of these programs will put extra demands on your computer system resources and can cause you to have serious problems browsing the internet. If you have one of these programs it is highly recommended that you uninstall it. A Very good web site to go to for a complete description of spy ware and removal instructions for the above programs can be found at: http://www.pchell.com/support/spyware.shtml
You may go to a web site that has a gray flashing banner with a warning sign that your download speed is too slow and wants you to "click here" to improve it. Avoid these as they are advertisements and will not help you. Possibly slow you down if nothing else.
If you think there is a possibility that you may have some of these parasite programs running on your pc go to this page for a link to test your browser.
What
is Spy Ware & Ad ware you ask?
Spy
ware & Ad ware are files that are installed on your computer without your
knowledge. They allow companies to monitor your Internet browsing patterns and
even allow companies to inundate you with those annoying "pop up" ads!
If after you've downloaded some music, you started getting
those annoying ads popping up on your screen, you've been infected with Spy Ware
and/or Ad Ware!