Parasites have quickly become the internets number 1 security threat. An estimated 9 of 10 computers are infected with some sort of parasite. Computer parasites are usually classified as one of the following:

Adware
  Adware is software that generates extra pop-ups and ads within programs. This software is usually bundled with trial software or software that is funded by ad sales. This software typically slows down an internet connection because data is being requested by the user and the Adware at the same time.

Spyware
  Spyware is software that secretly reports back to the creator for the purpose of collecting marketing data or some other semi-anonymous data collection. This can come bundled in with Adware, trial software, system driver files or anything else you install on your computer. Many times they serve no purpose except data collection.

Click here for the Wikipedia entry that can provide you with further information regarding spyware.


Parasite Removal Downloads:

Spybot - Search & Destroy
  This is a free program that detects and removes different kinds of parasites from your computer. Spybot is an excellent free parasite remover. I use this myself and I favour it over many of the other commerical softwares that cost money.