• You see pop-up advertisements even when you're not on the Web.
• The page that your Web browser first opens (home page) or your browser search settings have changed without your knowledge.
• You notice a new, unwanted toolbar in your browser and find it difficult to get rid of.
• Your computer takes longer than usual to complete certain tasks.
• You experience a sudden rise in computer crashes.

Spyware is often associated with software that displays advertisements (called adware) or tracks personal or sensitive information. Some spyware is nothing more than a nuisance , but others pose significant risks to online users.

Other kinds of unwanted software will make annoying changes to your computer and cause your computer to slow down or crash. These programs have the ability to change your browser's home or search page or add additional components to your browser you don't need or want. These programs also make it very difficult for you to change your settings back to the way you originally had them. The key to recognizing spyware, in all cases, is whether you (or someone who uses your computer) understand what the software will do and have agreed to install the software on your computer or not.

There are a number of ways spyware and other unwanted software can infiltrate your system. A common trick is to covertly install the software during the installation of other software you want, such as a music or video file-sharing program. Whenever you are installing something on your computer, make sure you carefully read all disclosures, including the license agreement and privacy statement. Sometimes the inclusion of unwanted software in a given software installation is documented, but it may appear at the end of a license agreement or privacy statement. Always read the fine print.

What you can do to help prevent unwanted spyware:

1. Keep your software current. You should visit your operating system’s vendor website to determine if your software is current.
2. Make sure your Internet security settings are appropriate. North Dallas Bank & Trust Co.’s website is optimized and tested for use with Internet Explorer. Microsoft recommends that you set the security settings for the Internet Zone to Medium or higher. To view your current Internet Explorer security settings:
   a. In Internet Explorer, click Tools and then click Internet Options.
   b. Select the Security tab.
3. While most spyware and other unwanted software comes bundled with other programs or originates from unscrupulous websites, a small amount of spyware can actually be placed on your computer remotely by hackers. Installing a firewall or using one that's built into your Internet Provider (such as America Online) or operating system (like Windows XP) provides a helpful defense against these hackers.
4. The best defense against spyware and other unwanted software? Don’t download it in the first place. Here are a few helpful tips that can protect you from downloading software you don't want.
   • Only download programs from websites you trust. If you're not sure whether to trust a program you are considering downloading, ask a knowledgeable friend or enter the name of the program into your favorite search engine to see if anyone else has reported that it contains spyware.
   • Read all security warnings, license agreements and privacy statements associated with any software before you download.
   • Never click "agree" or "OK" to close a window. Instead, click the red "x" in the corner of the window or press the Alt + F4 buttons on your keyboard to close a window.
   • Be wary of popular "free" music and movie file-sharing programs, and be sure you clearly understand all of the software packaged with those programs.
5. Some Internet Service Providers (ISPs) include anti-spyware software in their service packages. Check with your ISP to what they recommend. If your ISP doesn't offer a removal tool for spyware and other unwanted software, ask people you trust to recommend one. Keep in mind that using these tools may mean you will no longer be able to use a free program that came with the spyware.

Also, be careful using a computer that is not yours. Public computers, such as those found in hotels, libraries or Internet cafes are not recommended. This is mainly because of the uncertainty of what spyware or other malicious programs may be installed on this equipment.

Remember, the best defense against spyware is to be careful of sites you visit and software you download.