Adware is a type of software that is most often packaged in with other software, unbeknownst to the buyer or end user of the software. Categorized as an advertising-supported device, this adware software is then set to automatically install, load and run advertising material on the end users computer after or while the original software is installed on it and being used.
Sometimes confused with and / or categorized with malware, another type of intrusive software however one thats created to harm the end users systems or computer itself, adware is also intrusive and unwanted. The use of adware is still viewed in a negative light because (a) it installs with out asking permission and in a secretive, intruding manner (b) runs either at the same time the original freeware and / or shareware was installed and activated and often afterwards, unbeknownst to the computer user and unwanted by the user as well, as it disclosed private, often personal information that should not be shared unknowingly and without explicit authorized permission.
Malware, adware and other similar type spyware software has created a new advocacy group who opposes such security-breaching installations. Reported among popular users of this intrusive technology are eXeem and Kazaa, top programs that offer shared files that do also package in unwanted, intrusive, targeted ads to the computer users.
Top Names Like Eudora
Sadly enough, even popular software programs like the Eudora e-mail program features adware within its installation. Supposedly after a, initial trial period, Eudora email users are asked to choose between features, some of which have adware attached to them, even though the hosting company, Qualcomm, says that they do not collect information about activity of the computer user with this technology.
There are a bunch of software programs available, often for free download, that can help people with computer users weed out intrusive adware programs. They can either block the advertising messages and instructions or remove the spyware applications or a combination of both. Simply search your favorite engines for adware removal for over 4 million listings of helpful information, resources and tools in all budget ranges.
Beware of These..
Here are some software programs, listed in no particular order, to avoid or at least monitor closely with anti-adware programs, as they have been reported to contain adware:
Aurora
Battlefield 2142
Bonzi Buddy
Block Checker
Clip Genie
Comet Cursor
Cydoor
Direct Revenue
Ebates Money Maker
Error Safe
Gator
Hotbar
Smiley Central
Stumble Upon
Weather Bug
WhenU
WinFixer
Zango
123 Messenger
180 Solutions
180 Search Assistant