My PC is constantly sending information.....help please 1

[DANNYLOCO4U]

Hi. Every time I connect to the internet, my computer starts sending something to somewhere, and doesn't stop. It doesn't matter how long the duration of my session is, it just keeps sending. Please tell me what it is sending and how I make it stop. Thx in advance!

 

[jeffbouldin]

More than likely you have some software on your computer that is referred to as spyware. It is a program that collects data and reports to a server somewhere so that people can try to sell you something. Most of the time it is installed with a free program that you have downloaded. Sometimes it is put there by a website. Download either Ad-aware or Spy-Bot Search and Destroy (links bellow). Ad-Aware is easier to use but Spy-Bot seems to give you more info, which might get confusing. If you choose Ad-Aware you will have to download, install, and run a program called RefUpdate. It will update Ad-Aware to the latest definitions.

Also run a good virus scan program that has been updated recently. Some viruses or worms can also do the same thing. I use AVG from Grisoft (link bellow).

Last of all; after all of that make sure you have some kind of firewall running. Even if you are on dail-up you are vulnerable. I use Zone Alarm (link bellow).

http://www.lavasoft.de

http://spybot.eon.net.au/

http://www.grisoft.com/html/us_downl.htm?session=1d7df955bc08e3ed9d97b6036f6a43ef

http://www.zonelabs.com/store/appli...sp&event=link.skuList&&zl_catalog_view_id=201

(Scroll to the bottom for the free version)

 

[DANNYLOCO4U]

Thanks so much Jeff. Your response was very informative and helpful... I thank you very much.

p.s.

Thanks for the links also.