| 1. When you start Internet Explorer or FireFox, your | | | | that there are many processes running that you have |
| default home page changes to something else. | | | | not seen before. |
| 2. You go to a site and you get a message that your | | | | 7. When you type in the name of a site to go to, you |
| computer is being scanned for viruses. This is spyware | | | | wind up on a different site. |
| that nested itself on your computer and it wants you | | | | 8. A toolbar appears that you did not install yourself, or |
| to click the link so that it can find out some information | | | | a toolbar appears at the bottom of the screen. |
| from you | | | | 9. You notice that your hard drive light or cable modem |
| 3. You get pop-up ads, even when you are not using | | | | lights start to blink very fast and often. |
| the Internet. Some of them have your name in them. | | | | 10. You answered yes in a box to help the vendor do |
| 4. You want to search for something and after you | | | | research. This research could be surfing the Internet, or |
| type in the words and press Enter, or click on the Go | | | | how you use a program. |
| button you are re-directed to another site. | | | | 11. You suddenly receive emails with a common theme. |
| 5. Items appear in your Favorites list and they were | | | | For example, coupons for a specific product or |
| not there before. | | | | financial aid and credit cards by searching for college |
| 6. Your computer runs real slow and the applications | | | | financing options. |
| or windows open real slow. They look like they are | | | | 12. Spyware has become more intelligent and not |
| being painted on the screen. If you are familiar with | | | | detectable. You should scan your computer at least |
| Task Manager and you open the application you notice | | | | once a week. |