User Manual

purposes. Spyware apps are typically bundled as a hidden component
of freeware or shareware programs that can be downloaded from the
internet; however, it should be noted that the majority of shareware and
freeware apps do not come with spyware. Once installed, the spyware
monitors user activity on the internet and transmits that information in
the background to someone else. Spyware can also gather information
about email addresses and even passwords and credit card numbers.
Spyware's similarity to a Trojan horse threat is the fact that users
unwittingly install the product when they install something else. A
common way to become a victim of spyware is to download certain
peer-to-peer file swapping products that are available today.
Aside from the questions of ethics and privacy, spyware steals from the
user by using the computer's memory resources and also by eating
bandwidth as it sends information back to the spyware's home base via
the user's internet connection. Because spyware is using memory and
system resources, the apps running in the background can lead to system
crashes or general system instability.
Startup items
Any files placed in this folder will open when the computer starts. For
example, a startup screen, a sound file to be played when the computer
first starts, a reminder calendar, or apps can be startup items. Normally,
an alias of a file is placed in this folder rather than the file itself.
Subscription
Purchase agreement that gives the user the right to use a particular
product or service on a specific number of devices and for a certain
period of time. An expired subscription can be automatically renewed
using the information provided by the user at the first purchase.
System tray
Introduced with Windows 95, the system tray is located in the Windows
taskbar (usually at the bottom next to the clock) and contains miniature
icons for easy access to system functions such as fax, printer, modem,
volume, and more. Double click or right-click an icon to view and access
the details and controls.
Glossary 311
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