Doesn't my virus scanner pick up this type of software?

No. It really doesn't. Virus scanners typically pick up trojans or viruses but fail to detect common key loggers or stealth programs. Some spyware programs are based on common viruses or trojan horse programs, but may are sold as child monitors. However, they are often bought and misused by the end user.

Will Spyware Crusher replace my anti-virus software?

No. Spyware Crusher is an added precaution. We recommend your run your normal anti-virus software as always.

Is Spyware Crusher compatible with my Virus Scanner?

Yes, Spyware Crusher is compatible and will supplement those products. A virus scanner will protect you from virus-infected files. A firewall will protect you from hacking attempts comming from the outside (mostly the internet). But neither does anything against someone trying to breach your privacy or steal your secrets by examining the traces left by programs on your hard disk or by installing keyboard logging software. Only Spyware Crusher helps protect you from these kind of "attacks" by deleting surfing traces and detecting and removing spy programs. We always recommend that you have a good virus and firewall package installed.

What spyware do you scan for?

The software scans for an ever growing list of spyware that is updated weekly.

I already have OptOut/Adaware/... , do I need Spyware Crusher too?

Yes, when OptOut or similar talk about "Spyware", what they actually mean is "Adware", like the banner ad system from Aureate / Radiate that puts advertisments into software applications. While there are some known privacy concerns with Adware, these are nothing compared with real Spyware. Consider the difference between being protected against adware (what Optout does) which sends out demographics and banner clickthru ratios and being protected against spyware (what Spyware Crusher does) that transmits every keystroke, logs every password you type... and you will see the difference in importance and "steath level". Spyware Crusher also includes functionality to remove certain types of Adware.

Is Adware the same as Spyware?

No, Spyware and Adware are different. Adware can do a number of things from profile your online surfing and spending habits to popping up annoying ad windows as you surf. In some cases Adware has been bundled (i.e. peer-to-peer file swapping products) with other software without the user's knowledge or slipped in the fine print of a EULA (End User License Agreement). Not all Adware is bad, but often users are annoyed by adware's intrusive behavior. Keep in mind that by removing Adware sometimes the program it came bundled with for free may stop functioning. We feel this is a small price to pay for your privacy.

Spyware is far more dangerous than Adware because it can record your keystrokes, history, passwords, etc. Spyware is often sold as a spouse monitor, child monitor, or simply as spyware. Spyware is any software that covertly gathers user information without a user's knowledge.

What exactly is malware?

Malware is short for malicious software. Malware is software designed specifically to disrupt a computer system. For example, a trojan horse or a virus. Some advertising software can be malicious in that it can try to re-install itself after you remove it. Basically, it is virusware.

What is a cookie?

A cookie is a small piece of data stored on your hard drive. People who access your cookies can gather data about where you go.

I want to use Spyware Crusher on my laptop and desktop do I need to purchase multiple licenses?

No. Our license is like owning a book, as long as it is you personally using the software you may use it on other machines. If others will be using it you will need seperate licenses.