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What is spyware and adware?

Spyware applications track how you use your computer or surf online. They are often installed with other "free" applications without your knowledge or permission, and you may not even realize that they exist on your computer. Spyware can be difficult to uninstall. You can learn the many types of spyware by visiting the Yahoo! Anti-Spyware Community site.

Adware applications present pop-up or pop-under ads that are displayed when the main product is not running or do not appear to be connected with the product (such as pop-under ads while web browsing). These ads may be targeted and are not displayed within the form of an ad-sponsored application. Adware is often installed along with other "free" applications that provide services such as file sharing (P2P), clock synching, and weather reports.

Rogers Yahoo! Anti-Spy helps you find these types of applications and lets you decide which to remove and which to keep. For specific details on why some applications are included in the scan results, please read about the criteria.