While most computers have some sort of protection against viruses, they are not quite secure: intrusive software called "Spyware" is often left unmolested by virus guards.

What is Spyware?

Spyware is the general term for any application which saves personal information (often unknown to the user) and transmits it to a company to sell or use for marketing. This personal information, including everything from your name and address to what websites you view, is recorded by these applications and sold to spammers and other less-than-reputable companies.   Applications such as GAIN (a.k.a. Gator), CometCursor, Bonzai Buddy and others are often bundled with other popular software. These applications often masquerade as having legitimate use, but in reality are harvesting information about you. Spyware can also cause "mischief" on your computer such as showing pop-up ads, changing your browser home-screen, or disabling other applications.

Is Spyware legal?

Unlike viruses and hacking attacks, Spyware is totally legal. When you install these applications, often you'll agree to a contract. This screen full of legalese called an End User License Agreement, commonly abbreviated "EULA" (pronounced 'YOO-lah'). When you agree to these agreements, you're giving the Spyware full rights to spy on your habits and sell your information.

What can you do?

1. Install a Spyware-scanner - Applications such as Spybot: S&D, Bazooka and Microsoft AntiSpyware are free programs which scan your computer for Spyware threats and disable them. Schedule scans regularly.
2. Be careful what you install - Many whimsical applications which are advertised in pop-ups or bundled with popular software are Spyware. Don't install any program if you aren't sure what it will do. If you aren't sure, ask around or search online about it.
3. Read EULAs carefully - EULAs are legal contracts. Read through them to find any provisions relating to distribution of your personal information.

As long as you're careful and scan your computer, Spyware companies will be stuck with only their own secrets.

The Missouri Legislature is currently considering a bill that would remove PSC price controls and allow phone companies to raise your rates at will.

BIG RIVER TELEPHONE OPPOSES THESE ANTI- COMPETITIVE BILLS. WE NEED YOUR HELP.

DON'T LET THE LEGISLATORS TAKE AWAY YOU ABILITY TO CHOOSE YOUR PROVIDER.

THERE IS SOMETHING YOU CAN DO!

ALL NOW AND TELL YOUR REPRESENTATIVES TO VOTE "NO" ON HOUSE BILL 433 AND SENATE BILL 237 

ALL NOW AND TELL YOUR REPRESENTATIVES TO VOTE "NO" ON HOUSE BILL 433 AND SENATE BILL 237 

You can leave a voicemail message for your Senator or Representative asking him or her to vote "no" on the telecom bill. Have your 9-digit zip code ready so you can be put straight through to your legislator.

Call 1-800-500-8839 to stop unfair rate increases.

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