What is malware, and how do I get rid of it?

Malware, sometimes called adware, spyware, or ransomware, is malicious software that is downloaded via the Internet or email. Sometimes you will click 'yes' on something you haven’t read carefully, and that will load the software. Or you may have opened a spam email that had the software attached to it. A lot of adware and spyware works like a virus, getting onto your computer without your specific permission or knowledge. Adware specializes mostly in introducing pop-ups and other Internet-based advertising. Spyware specializes in logging keystrokes, and keeping track of where you go on the Internet. Ransomware encrypts  the files on your computer and demands payment in return for decrypting them. Any of these types of software can and do send your information to the company or individual that originated it. The best way to remove this kind of software is to run a program that searches for and removes malware.