If you’ve installed any Microsoft updates recently you may recall seeing something called Windows Genuine Advantage (WGA) in amongst the bits and pieces you are urged to install. WGA is meant to validate your copy of Windows, but at the same time WGA also installs something called the Windows Genuine Advantage Notification tool.
This is a little utility that looks for pirated copies of Microsoft software, but here’s the worrying bit. Every time you boot up your PC it calls home to Microsoft, (or once a day if your PC is left running). Read More»
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Use an antispyware scanner and removal tool
Windows Defender, which ships with this version of Windows, helps prevent malicious software, spyware, and other potentially unwanted software from infecting your computer. When Windows Defender is on, you’re alerted if spyware and other potentially unwanted software tries to run or install itself on your computer. You choose if you want to ignore, quarantine, or remove each item that is detected. For more information, see Scan for spyware and other potentially unwanted software.
Spyware scanners are also frequently included in antivirus programs. If you have already installed an antivirus program, check to see if that program includes spyware protection features or if you Read More»
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